An overwhelming 85% of Greenlanders oppose U.S. President Donald Trump's suggestion that their territory should become part of the United States, as revealed by a recent opinion poll. Conducted by Verian, the survey indicates strong resistance among the island's population against Trump's claims of interest in Greenland for national security reasons. Only 6% supported the idea of joining the U.S., while 9% remained undecided.

The poll reflects the sentiments of the approximately 57,000 residents of Greenland, a semi-autonomous territory of Denmark that boasts significant natural resources and strategic military importance. Trump's comments, including a recent assertion that Greenland is "vital" to U.S. security, have been met with skepticism from both Greenlanders and Danish officials. Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen emphasized that borders should be respected and that Greenland's future rests solely with its people, according to The Guardian.

In response to escalating tensions, Denmark announced a $2 billion investment to strengthen military presence in the Arctic region. This includes the procurement of three new Arctic naval ships and advanced drone technology to enhance surveillance capacities in response to growing global interest in Greenland's resources, as reported by The New York Times.

Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen firmly stated "Trump will not have Greenland," reiterating that the island's fate is a matter for its residents to decide. He added that there is no legal basis for any claim the U.S. might make to the territory. Greenland's Prime Minister Mute Egede echoed these sentiments, asserting that their push for independence is well-founded, as reported by The Local.

European leaders have rallied in support of Denmark and Greenland amid Trump's controversial statements. Chancellor Olaf Scholz of Germany expressed that "borders must not be moved by force," reinforcing the principle of state sovereignty during Frederiksen's diplomatic tour across Europe that sought to gather support against U.S. pressures, highlighted in an article from Al Jazeera.

The increasing geopolitical significance of the Arctic, attributed to climate change and resource availability, has heightened the region's profile globally, contributing to the complexity of international relations involving Greenland. Amidst this backdrop, many Greenlanders have vocalized their desire to maintain autonomy and resist external pressures, emphasizing the importance of self-determination in their political discourse, as articulated in statements made to Reuters.

The ongoing geopolitical tussle underlines the importance of international collaboration and respect for national sovereignty as reactions to Trump's ambition grow. With the EU's collective support for Denmark established, the situation continues to evolve as both Denmark and Greenland assert their sovereignty in the face of external claims.

For more on this topic, visit Newsweek.