Greenland's Prime Minister Múte Egede has responded firmly to President Donald Trump's recent pledge regarding his intention to acquire Greenland, declaring that "Greenland is ours." In a robust Facebook post following Trump's address to Congress, Egede emphasized the island's right to self-determination, stating, "We don't want to be Americans or Danes. We are Kalaallit," which reflects the identity of the Greenlandic people. He further insisted that the Americans, including their leaders, "must understand this" and that "we are not for sale and can't just be taken. Our future will be determined by us in Greenland," highlighting the island’s independence aspirations.

During his congressional speech, Trump reiterated that he was dedicated to gaining control of Greenland "one way or the other," framing this pursuit as essential for national and world security. He remarked, "We will keep you safe. We will make you rich, and together, we will take Greenland to heights like you have never thought possible before," while also suggesting military options if necessary – a stance that raised international concern.

Trump's statements have been met with firm rejection not only from Egede but also from Danish officials. Danish Defence Minister Trouls Lund Poulsen stated simply, "That won't happen," affirming that the direction Greenland wants to pursue will be decided by its own people. This dynamic is particularly pertinent as the island approaches its upcoming general elections on March 11, which are expected to center around the question of its future relationship with Denmark and aspirations for independence.

Polling data indicates a strong sentiment among Greenlanders against becoming part of the U.S., with many expressing a desire for greater autonomy rather than integration into the United States. Egede's rebuttal represents a wider consensus in Greenland that prioritizes their identity and governance over foreign ambitions. The discussions surrounding Greenland's future will continue as geopolitical interests in the Arctic intensify amid shifting climate patterns.

For further insights on the geopolitical implications surrounding this topic, read more from CBS, LA Times, and HuffPost.