Key takeaways:

• All five parties in Greenland's parliament have united to reject President Trump's annexation claims.
• Greenlanders protested against Trump's remarks, emphasizing their desire for autonomy.
• Political leaders reiterate that their future lies in independence from Denmark, not U.S. control.
• Trump's comments have been met with widespread condemnation from the Greenlandic populace and government.
• Outgoing Prime Minister Egede and the new likely leader Nielsen express a firm stance against Trump's plans.

All five political parties in Greenland’s parliament have released a united statement rejecting U.S. President Donald Trump's recent assertions regarding the annexation of the island. Greenland’s leaders convened their response following Trump's reiterated claims during a meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, where he stated, “I think it will happen,” indicating a desire to control the strategically significant Arctic territory. The leaders emphasized that such conduct is unacceptable for friends and allies within a defense alliance, highlighting their determination to maintain Greenland's sovereignty and autonomy. As articulated in their statements, the chairmen of the Greenlandic parties declared, “We cannot accept the repeated statements on annexation and control of Greenland,” highlighting their commitment to self-governance and independence from external control, particularly that of the United States.

Greenlanders took to the streets in protest, with hundreds gathering in the capital, Nuuk, showcasing banners that asserted, "Respect Greenland's sovereignty" and "We are not for sale." Jens-Frederik Nielsen, leader of the Demokraatit party, which secured a surprising victory in the recent elections, joined other political figures, including the outgoing Prime Minister Mute Egede, in leading these demonstrations. Nielsen emphasized, “There is not the slightest chance that I will talk to Trump about Greenland becoming part of the US,” underscoring Greenland's commitment to remain an independent nation free from outside domination.

Prime Minister Egede responded specifically to Trump’s statements, calling them “completely unacceptable” and urged for a tightening rejection of Trump's frequent comments about annexation. Greenland's new political landscape, shaped by recent elections, reveals a strong desire among its leaders to engage in a measured approach towards independence rather than any affiliations with larger powers, such as the United States.

Polls indicate a significant majority of Greenlanders, approximately 85%, oppose any idea of becoming part of the U.S., opting instead for full independence from Denmark, which has governed the island for centuries. This sentiment is encapsulated by Egede’s statement on social media, where he asserted, “Our country will never be the USA, and we Greenlanders will never be Americans." The political response to Trump's remarks showcases a unified front against what is perceived as disrespectful behavior towards Greenland's sovereignty.

Trump's interest in Greenland is not a recent phenomenon. In 2019, he offered to purchase the territory, a proposal that was dismissed by both Denmark and Greenlanders. Despite his assertions of national security interests, which include Greenland's military significance and potential natural resources, the island's leaders are resolute in their assertion of self-determination, signifying a pivotal moment in their ongoing struggle for autonomy.

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