Protests have broken out in Greenland and Denmark in opposition to Donald Trump’s repeated declarations to take control of the island territory, threatening further tariffs on nations that oppose his annexation plans. Demonstrators flooded the streets of Greenland’s capital, Nuuk, brandishing the territory’s red and white flag and asserting its non-negotiable status. Trump argues that US ownership of Greenland is crucial for national security, a claim strongly contested by Denmark, who have allowed increased US troop presence on the island but refuse to “trade people” to Washington DC.
In retaliation against Denmark and other dissenting nations, Trump announced intentions to impose a 10 percent tariff on the UK and potentially raise it to 25 percent by June 1 until an agreement for the full purchase of Greenland is reached. Keir Starmer responded by affirming that Greenland is part of the Kingdom of Denmark, emphasizing the importance of Arctic Security within NATO, and condemning the imposition of tariffs on allies striving for collective security.
A survey conducted by Verian in January 2025 revealed that the vast majority of Greenlanders prefer independence or remaining under Danish sovereignty, with only six percent expressing a desire to join the US. Any attempt to seize Greenland, a territory of NATO member Denmark, would trigger intervention by NATO allies.
Greenlanders took to the streets in Nuuk, expressing their resistance to becoming part of the US. The majority of Greenlanders favor independence or continued affiliation with Denmark. The ongoing dispute over Greenland has led to demonstrations in Copenhagen against Trump, with Danes historically considering themselves as steadfast and trustworthy US allies. Greenland has been self-governing within Denmark since 2009.