Greenlanders Protest US Annexation Threats, Reaffirming 'Not For Sale' Stance

Widespread Demonstrations Across Greenland and Denmark

On January 17, 2026, large-scale demonstrations, dubbed the 'Hands off Greenland protests,' swept across numerous cities and towns in Greenland and metropolitan Denmark. Thousands of citizens gathered, particularly in Greenland's capital, Nuuk, to vehemently protest against potential annexation by the United States. The protests were a direct response to renewed threats from US President Donald Trump regarding the acquisition of the autonomous Danish territory.

Protesters prominently displayed slogans such as 'Greenland is not for sale,' 'Yankee, Go Home,' and 'Make America Go Away,' underscoring a strong rejection of any foreign takeover. The sentiment 'Greenland for the Greenlanders' resonated through the crowds, emphasizing the island's right to self-determination.

Escalation of the 'Greenland Crisis'

The protests occurred amidst an escalating 'Greenland crisis,' which began in 2025 with the second Trump administration's repeated attempts to annex Greenland. This situation intensified in early 2026 when President Trump refused to rule out the use of military force and threatened a 25% import tax on European Union (EU) goods unless Denmark ceded Greenland. Trump had previously expressed interest in acquiring Greenland during his first presidency in 2019, an offer that was dismissed as 'absurd' by Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen.

The US interest in Greenland is rooted in historical strategic considerations, with previous attempts to purchase the island dating back to the 19th century and offers made in 1946 and 2019, all of which were rejected by Denmark.

Greenland and Denmark Stand Firm

Both Greenlandic and Danish authorities have consistently asserted Greenland's right to self-determination, reiterating that the territory is 'not for sale.' The Greenlandic government has affirmed its choice to remain within the Danish Realm over any American takeover, with polls indicating that 85% of Greenlanders oppose such a move. Danish leaders, including Prime Minister Frederiksen, have been clear that they would defend Greenland in the event of an attack.

International Condemnation and Trump's Reversal

The US threats drew significant international attention and condemnation. Denmark and eight NATO allies deployed forces to defend the territory, and the European Union warned of a 'dangerous downward spiral,' considering sanctions against the US. Opposition to Trump's actions was also voiced within the US Congress.

Following widespread international pressure and talks, President Trump reversed his position at the 2026 Davos conference on January 21, pledging not to use force or tariffs to annex Greenland. This reversal came after discussions with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, though Greenland and Denmark maintained that no deal would alter Greenland's sovereignty.