Greenland’s Prime Minister, Múte B. Egede, has taken a strong stance against recent remarks from the former U.S. president, responding with decisiveness and clarity.
Historic Protests in Greenland
Greenland witnessed unprecedented gatherings over the weekend, as citizens protested against Trump’s comments regarding U.S. control over the island. This event marked the largest protest in Greenland’s history, with masses thronging the capital city, Nuuk.
The turnout was significant given Nuuk’s population is approximately 19,000, and Greenland itself houses about 57,000 people. The participation was indeed a large slice of the nation’s populace.
Orla Joelsen, who organized the protest, expressed amazement, telling the local newspaper Sermitsiaq, “I’m overwhelmed by the incredible number of people who joined the protest. I’ve never seen such a large demonstration before.”
The demonstrators made their voices heard through slogans like “Enough is enough!” and “Greenland belongs to the Greenlanders.” The protests also resonated in Sisimiut, Greenland’s second-largest city, where placards with messages such as “Yankee go home” and “We’re not for sale” were prominently displayed.
Criticism of Trump’s Behavior
During the protests, sentiments against Trump were palpable.
“He hasn’t shown good behavior. He only uses the media to his advantage. After his visit, Donald Trump Jr. claimed that Greenlanders love the U.S., but we want to show that not all of us feel that way,” one protester explained. “I hope that, as a people, we can demonstrate our identity and unity without political affiliations.”
Múte B. Egede, currently serving as Acting Prime Minister and leading the effort to consolidate Greenland’s political leaders against U.S. propositions, directed a straightforward declaration at Trump.
“Greenland is ours. We are not for sale and will never be for sale. We must not lose our long struggle for freedom,” Egede asserted.
Greenland Stands United
Having participated in the weekend demonstrations, Egede emphasized the value of national cohesion.
“It is incredibly moving to see so many people standing together. It is completely unacceptable for a foreign leader to attempt to pressure our nation. Unity is our strength,” he affirmed.
Jens-Frederik Nielsen, leader of the liberal party Demokraatit, which emerged as Greenland’s largest political party in recent elections, supported Egede during the demonstration.
“It’s truly inspiring, and I feel proud. As Múte said, this unity gives us immense strength. We may have different opinions on various issues, but on this matter, we are all standing together,” Nielsen remarked.
The ongoing dialogue continues to ignite discussions, but one unwavering stance remains: Greenland’s community is resolute in their pursuit of sovereignty.
