Mass Protests Erupt in Greenland and Denmark Over Trump’s Annexation Plans
Thousands protest across Greenland and Denmark against President Trump’s plan to take over Greenland, as new U.S. tariffs target European nations opposing the move.
Protests in Greenland and Denmark are Against Trump’s Plans
Thousands of demonstrators have taken to the streets in Greenland and Denmark to oppose U.S. President Donald Trump’s plans to take over Greenland, the self-governing territory under Danish sovereignty.
Rallies were held in several Danish cities, including Copenhagen, and in Greenland’s capital, Nuuk. Protesters carried placards reading “Hands Off Greenland,” “Greenland for Greenlanders,” and “Greenland Is Not for Sale,” sending a clear message of resistance to Washington’s ambitions.
The demonstrations aligned with a visit to Copenhagen by a delegation from the U.S. Congress. The group’s leader, Democratic Senator Chris Coons, criticized Trump’s discourse, calling it “not constructive” and warning that it risks escalating tensions unnecessarily.
Trump has repeatedly argued that Greenland is vital to U.S. national security and has refused to rule out acquiring it by force. He recently amplified the standoff by announcing tariffs on European countries that oppose his plan. Writing on his Truth Social platform, Trump said goods from Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the UK, the Netherlands, and Finland would face a 10% U.S. tariff from 1 February. He added that the rate would rise to 25% by 1 June unless a “Complete and Total purchase of Greenland” is agreed.
Accusing these nations of playing “a very dangerous game,” Trump reiterated that Washington could secure Greenland “the easy way or the hard way.”
Greenland’s strategic value lies in its location between North America and the Arctic, making it crucial for missile early-warning systems and maritime monitoring. Though sparsely populated, the island is rich in natural resources, adding to its geopolitical importance.
In Copenhagen, Greenlandic politician Erik Jensen told Reuters that unity was essential. “It’s very important that we stay together and show that Greenland is not for sale and that we do not want to be annexed by the United States,” he said.
The protests were organized by Greenlandic and Danish NGOs. Camilla Siezing, head of Inuit—an umbrella group for Greenlandic associations—said: “We demand respect for the Danish Realm and for Greenland’s right to self-determination.”
In Nuuk, Greenland’s Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen joined demonstrators as they marched toward the U.S. consulate, holding signs that read “We Shape Our Future.” Opinion polls suggest that around 85% of Greenlanders oppose joining the United States.
European allies have rallied behind Denmark, stressing that Arctic security should be handled collectively through NATO. France, Germany, Sweden, Norway, Finland, the Netherlands, and the UK have dispatched small reconnaissance forces to Greenland as a show of solidarity.
Skepticism over the annexation plan is also growing within the United States. While most members of the visiting congressional delegation are Democrats, the group includes moderate Republicans.
“There are legitimate reasons to strengthen Arctic security,” Coons said. “But this should be done in partnership with our NATO allies—not through threats or coercion.”
