Greenland's incoming prime minister, Jens-Frederik Nielsen, has dismissed any discussion of annexing the semi-autonomous territory as "unacceptable."
His remarks come after U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio suggested that Denmark should consider the fact that Greenlanders do not wish to remain part of Denmark—a comment reflecting ongoing tensions between Washington, Copenhagen, and Nuuk following U.S. President Donald Trump's repeated assertions that the Arctic island should join the United States.
Speaking to TV2, Nielsen asserted, "We are human beings up here; we are not a piece of property that can be bought. Partnerships and cooperation can always be discussed, but talk of annexation is unacceptable." He further refuted Rubio's claim that Greenland might soon secede, emphasizing that while many Greenlanders are eager for greater autonomy, they do not want to become part of the U.S.
Rubio, addressing reporters in Brussels after a meeting with other NATO foreign ministers, stated that "Greenlanders are going to make a decision," underscoring the belief that the people of Greenland will determine their own future. However, Nielsen countered that, "He is not right that Greenland wants to secede tomorrow. He is right that Greenland does not want to be Danish, but Greenland certainly doesn't want to be American either."
As Greenland works toward establishing a stronger foundation for self-governance, Nielsen stressed that the island is still in the process of building the capacity to stand on its own. "We work every day to build a foundation so that we can stand on our own in the future, but we are not there yet. What he says doesn't hold water," he added.
Nielsen’s new coalition is scheduled to formally take office on April 7, marking a significant moment in the island’s journey toward greater self-determination.
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