Greenland, a semi-autonomous territory of Denmark, is one place where that could happen. The United States, meanwhile, has expressed great interest in acquiring the island. Newly sworn-in Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen has responded with extreme gusto to outside demands. In doing so, he stressed Greenland’s sovereignty and its right to chart its own path.
Nielsen, born in Greenland’s capital, Nuuk, was sworn-in as Prime Minister on Friday. Just weeks after his swearing-in ceremony, a national media-welcoming, high-profile delegation led by new U.S. Vance’s attack focused on Denmark’s failure to govern Greenland, charging that they abandoned the Greenlandic people and allowed their territory to become a security liability.
Speaking at his inaugural press conference in Nuuk, Nielsen spoke to this latest turn of events with clarity and resolve.
“President Trump says that the United States is getting Greenland. Let me be clear: the United States won’t get that. We do not belong to anyone else. We determine our own future.” – Jens-Frederik Nielsen
In his remarks, Nielsen called for political unity among Greenlanders to withstand external pressures and ensure that their interests are safeguarded.
“At a time when we as a people are under pressure, we must stand together.” – Jens-Frederik Nielsen
Yet the very presence of JD Vance and his delegation was indicative of the increasing geopolitical interest in Greenland. Vance did not pull punches in criticizing Denmark’s administration of the island.
“Our message to Denmark is very simple: you have not done a good job by the people of Greenland. You have underinvested in the people of Greenland and you have underinvested in the security architecture of this incredible, beautiful landmass.” – JD Vance
Nielsen’s leadership comes at an important moment for Greenland. The island is still test driving its posture with Denmark, but attempting to fend off other foreign powers trying to exploit its strategic advantages. Prime Minister Nielsen’s unyielding position emphasizes Greenland’s desire to continue moving in the direction of setting its own course despite these global forces at play.