Protests Erupt in Copenhagen Against U.S. Plans for Greenland

Thousands gathered in Copenhagen on January 17 to voice their opposition to U.S. President Donald Trump's contentious plans to assume control over Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark. The demonstration was fueled by Trump's provocative comments regarding potential tariffs on nations that resist his ambitions for Greenland, known for its mineral wealth. This rally coincided with a visit from a bipartisan U.S. Congressional delegation, underscoring the widespread dissent among Americans against the Trump administration's aggressive posture. Waving flags of both Denmark and Greenland, protestors transformed the area outside Copenhagen City Hall into a striking display of solidarity, chanting 'Kalaallit Nunaat'—the Greenlandic name for the vast Arctic island. Organizers from Greenlandic associations in multiple Danish cities, including Aarhus and Odense, had rallied support through social media, calling for a united front to respect Greenland’s democracy and fundamental human rights. As part of these demonstrations, a sister event was scheduled in Nuuk, Greenland's capital, where protestors planned to march to the U.S. consulate bearing Greenlandic flags. The Copenhagen march, which commenced at noon, included a planned stop by the U.S. embassy, amplifying the rally’s message of respect and self-determination for the Greenlandic people. Julie Rademacher, chairwoman of the Uagut association representing Greenlanders in Denmark, called for unity in a statement to AFP. "When tensions rise and people go into a state of alarm, we risk creating more problems than solutions for ourselves and for each other. We appeal to Greenlanders in both Greenland and Denmark to stand together," she emphasized. The demonstration aimed not only to express solidarity among Greenlanders but also to showcase their support for local politicians and diplomats. Organizers Kristian Johansen and Avijaja Rosing-Olsen articulated a clear demand for recognition of Greenland's self-determination, international law, and the principles that govern it. Rosing-Olsen stated, "This is not only our struggle; it is a struggle that concerns the entire world." Recent polling indicated significant opposition among Greenlanders to the prospect of joining the United States, with 85% against the idea, reflecting a deep-rooted desire for self-determination. During the Congressional delegation's discussions in Copenhagen, U.S. Democratic Senator Chris Coons reiterated that there were no immediate security threats justifying the Trump administration's aggressive tactics toward Greenland. This statement addressed earlier comments from Trump advisor Stephen Miller, who suggested that Denmark's size limited its capacity to defend its territories. Coons noted the need for Arctic security as climatic changes continue to alter shipping routes and the environment, urging cooperation among allies. Despite Trump's disparaging remarks about Denmark, a staunch NATO ally, Greenland remains under the security umbrella of NATO, which includes a significant military presence. European NATO members have ramped up military exercises in Greenland to assert their commitment to defending their sovereignty, with participation invitations extended to the U.S. as well. In sum, the protests in Copenhagen signal not only a localized movement for Greenland's autonomy but also echo broader global concerns about sovereignty, rights, and geopolitical integrity in the face of shifting political tides. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2