Donald Trump Jr. visited Greenland on Tuesday, weeks after his father, US President-elect Donald Trump, reignited controversy by expressing a desire for the United States to gain control of the Arctic island.
In a social media post, Trump Jr. shared photos and videos from Greenland, calling the territory “beautiful.” Accompanying him were right-wing activist Charlie Kirk and Sergio Gor, a key figure in Trump-aligned political efforts.
This visit follows the president-elect’s recent comments describing Greenland as an “absolute necessity” for US national security, adding that he believed the territory’s people would benefit greatly under American governance. Trump also suggested economic measures, such as tariffs on Denmark, to encourage cooperation.
Greenland’s leaders responded firmly. Prime Minister Múte Egede reiterated that “Greenland belongs to the people of Greenland” and emphasised the island’s ongoing pursuit of independence from Denmark. Aaja Chemnitz, a Greenlandic parliamentarian, dismissed Trump’s comments as disrespectful, stating, “Greenland is not for sale, and it will never be for sale.”
Despite criticism, Kuno Fencker of Greenland’s Siumut Party struck a measured tone, welcoming Trump Jr. as a visitor and acknowledging Greenland’s geopolitical importance, particularly in relation to the US-operated Pituffik Space Base.
Greenland, an autonomous Danish territory, has historically been of interest to the US. Past attempts to acquire it date back to 1867, with renewed interest during the Truman administration in 1946.
As Greenland continues its push for independence, its leaders insist the decision on future alliances lies solely with its people.
