Greenland’s opposition leader says the territory should engage in direct talks with the United States, excluding Denmark, as debate intensifies over the Arctic island’s future and renewed interest from former U.S. President Donald Trump.
Greenland should open a direct line of communication with Washington without Copenhagen acting as an intermediary, according to a senior opposition figure. The comments come as the semi-autonomous territory considers how to respond to fresh signals from Trump about bringing Greenland under U.S. control—an idea he first raised during his initial term in 2019.
Although the proposal has sparked controversy and faces resistance within the United States, Trump has recently amplified his rhetoric, putting Greenland back at the center of international attention. His renewed interest has unsettled both Danish and Greenlandic officials, who are now trying to manage the diplomatic fallout.
Strategic Importance Drives U.S. Interest
Greenland’s location between Europe and North America gives it major geopolitical value. The island plays a key role in the U.S. ballistic missile defense system and sits along critical Arctic routes. In addition, Greenland’s vast reserves of rare earths and other minerals align with Washington’s broader goal of reducing reliance on China for strategic resources.
Despite this importance, Greenland remains an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark. While it governs its domestic affairs through its own parliament and administration, Denmark still controls foreign policy and defense matters.
Independence Voices Call for a New Approach
Pele Broberg, leader of Naleraq—the largest opposition party and a strong advocate for Greenlandic independence—argued that Denmark’s involvement complicates relations with Washington.
He urged Greenland’s current leadership to engage directly with U.S. officials, claiming Danish mediation has strained ties on both sides. Naleraq supports a faster path toward full independence and has gained momentum, doubling its parliamentary seats in the last election and securing about a quarter of the national vote in a population of roughly 57,000.
Although not part of the governing coalition, the party has floated the idea of a defense pact with the United States. One option under discussion is a “free association” model, where Greenland would retain sovereignty while receiving U.S. military protection and economic support—without formally becoming U.S. territory.
Government Pushback and Legal Limits
Greenland’s government, however, says such direct talks are not legally possible. Foreign Minister Vivian Motzfeldt explained that Greenland cannot negotiate independently with foreign powers under the current constitutional framework of the Danish kingdom.
She emphasized that established rules govern how disputes and international discussions are handled and expressed hope that upcoming meetings with Danish and U.S. officials would help stabilize relations.
That diplomatic effort comes at a time of heightened emotion. Denmark has highlighted its long-standing military cooperation with the United States, recalling sacrifices made by Danish troops in Afghanistan and Iraq. Symbolic gestures, such as flying the Greenlandic flag in central Copenhagen, underscore attempts to ease tensions and show unity.
International Reactions and NATO Concerns
Across Europe, allies are watching closely. NATO ambassadors recently discussed Greenland’s security, agreeing that the alliance needs to strengthen its Arctic presence. European Union officials have also voiced concern, warning that any move toward U.S. control would have serious geopolitical consequences.
Analysts say Denmark and Greenland are working to steer the debate away from inflammatory rhetoric and back into formal diplomatic channels, hoping to cool the situation before it escalates further.
Divided Views in Washington
Inside the United States, opinions remain split. Some senior officials downplay military options, while many lawmakers—across party lines—reject the idea of acquiring Greenland outright. Others argue Washington should focus instead on broader threats from Russia and China.
Still, some voices within the administration insist that all options remain open to protect U.S. interests, keeping uncertainty alive as Greenland navigates a delicate moment in its political future.
As calls for independence grow louder and global powers weigh their interests in the Arctic, Greenland finds itself at the crossroads of diplomacy, security, and self-determination.