KEY POINTS
- Greenland to strengthen U.S. ties while maintaining its independence.
- Egede calls for a united political front in U.S. negotiations.
- U.S. prioritizes cooperation over military action regarding Greenland.
Greenland Prime Minister Mute Egede announced on Monday that the country is prepared to strengthen its defense and mining partnerships with the United States, but only on its terms.
This statement comes in response to renewed interest from U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, who has reiterated his controversial ambition to acquire Greenland, describing it as a strategic and resource-rich asset.
According to Reuters, Egede emphasized Greenland’s autonomy during a press conference in Nuuk, asserting that any agreements regarding defense or mining will be decided solely by Greenland.
“Greenland’s independence is Greenland’s business, also in relation to the use of its land. It is Greenland that will decide what agreement we should come to,” Egede said.
Party leaders unite to address U.S. interest in Greenland
In light of the increased attention from the U.S., Egede has called a meeting with leaders of Greenland’s political parties in Nuuk to establish a collective approach.
He emphasized the need to speak with one united voice at this time in Greenland when America looks at its territory and natural resources.
“This is the first time Greenland has been listened to in an intense way,” Egede stated. “We need to be calm and take advantage of things and stand together.”
U.S. Vice President-elect JD Vance, speaking on Fox News, assured that military force was not on the table despite Trump’s comments. However, Vance focused on the role of Greenland and great opportunities for cooperation in the resource sphere.
Greenland prioritizes cooperation over conflict
Egede welcomed the vice president-elect’s assurance but remained cautious.
“It was worrying when we first heard it,” he said, referencing Trump’s earlier remarks about possible military measures. “But the vice president said yesterday that they have no interest in using weapons. Our interest is in cooperation.”
The Arctic island’s rich mineral reserves and strategic location have made it a focal point for global powers. The Greenland’s government sees this as a chance to negotiate partnership that are favorable on their terms and also to advance Greenland’s independence under a preferred international law regime.
