Greenland's Prime Minister Múte Egede has strongly asserted that the Arctic island's residents do not wish to become American, amid escalating interest from U.S. President-elect Donald Trump. Trump's recent remarks have raised eyebrows across Europe, as he suggested he might consider military or economic force to gain control over Greenland, which he deems crucial for U.S. national security.

"Greenland is for the Greenlandic people. We do not want to be Danish, we do not want to be American. We want to be Greenlandic," Egede stated at a press conference in Copenhagen alongside Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen. His comments come as discussions surrounding Greenland's independence gain traction, revealing sentiments reflecting a desire for self-determination among the island's 57,000 inhabitants.

Egede acknowledged that Greenland's strategic location makes it appealing to the United States, particularly in the context of increasing military activity from countries like Russia and China in the Arctic region. However, he emphasized a preference for collaboration rather than control. "Cooperation is about dialogue. Cooperation means that you will work towards solutions," he explained, expressing openness to discussions with Trump.

Trump's interest in Greenland is not new; he first mentioned a desire to purchase the island in 2019, a proposal quickly rebuffed by both the Danish government and Greenlandic leaders. Yet, the latest comments from Trump have escalated anxieties. Frederiksen reaffirmed Denmark's commitment to protecting Greenland's sovereignty, emphasizing that the relationship with the U.S. remains strong despite the controversial remarks. "The U.S. is our closest ally, and we will do everything to continue a strong cooperation," she stated.

The Greenlandic government has characterized its struggle for independence as a response to Denmark's historical colonial practices, particularly towards the indigenous Inuit populations. Recent sentiment indicates that many Greenlanders prefer managing their own affairs without foreign intervention as they seek increased autonomy from Denmark, which remains responsible for foreign policy and defense.

Trump's son recently visited Greenland, sparking further discussions as he promoted the "Make America Great Again" message during a controversial outing. Reports emerged that locals were offered incentives to participate in promotional activities, stirring discontent regarding the commercialization of Greenland's identity.

Amid this backdrop, Egede noted that while the independence movement is gathering momentum, they are not severing ties with Denmark entirely, pointing out the deep-rooted connections shaped over centuries.

While Greenland maintains significant natural resources, including oil, gas, and rare earth elements, its path forward appears to hinge on balancing its motivations for independence with the geopolitical interests of superpowers like the U.S., as tensions rise in the Arctic.

For more details, visit: SCMP, The Guardian, The Local.