Nuuk: An opposition leader in Greenland has called on the island’s government to hold direct talks with the United States without involving Denmark, as international attention grows over Greenland’s strategic importance in the Arctic.
Pele Broberg, leader of the Naleraq party, said Greenland should speak for itself in discussions with Washington and not rely on Denmark to represent its interests. He argued that Denmark often acts as a barrier and that Greenland needs a stronger and more independent voice in shaping its future.
Greenland is an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, but Copenhagen still controls foreign policy and defence matters. This means Greenland cannot legally conduct its own international negotiations, a point Danish leaders have repeatedly stressed.
The remarks come as the United States renews its interest in Greenland because of its location in the Arctic and its rich reserves of critical minerals. Washington already maintains military facilities on the island and sees it as important for regional security.
Denmark has rejected any suggestion that Greenland could negotiate alone with the United States. Danish officials say any talks must include Copenhagen and be conducted within existing legal frameworks.
European leaders have also spoken out in recent days, saying that only Greenland and Denmark have the right to decide the island’s future. They warned that any attempt by an outside power to change Greenland’s status would undermine international law and stability in the region.
Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is expected to meet Danish leaders soon to discuss Arctic security and cooperation. The planned talks aim to ease tensions and reaffirm alliances at a time of growing geopolitical competition in the far north.
Most political parties in Greenland support greater self rule and eventual independence from Denmark, but there is little public support for becoming part of the United States. For now, the debate highlights Greenland’s desire for a stronger role in decisions that affect its land, people and future.