COPENHAGEN, March 10 (Reuters) - According to Greenland's prime minister, U.S. President Donald Trump has not shown respect towards the people of Greenland since expressing his renewed interest in acquiring the mineral-rich Arctic island.
In his recent address to Congress, Trump portrayed a vision of prosperity and security for the "incredible people" of Greenland, an autonomous territory of the kingdom of Denmark.
Trump reiterated this stance in a post on Truth Social, affirming, "We will continue to keep you safe, as we have since World War II. We are ready to invest billions of dollars to create new jobs and make you rich."
Greenland's Prime Minister Mute Egede voiced his concerns in an interview with Danish public broadcaster DR, stating, "We deserve respect, and I believe the U.S. president has not shown that since taking office."
Reflecting on recent events, Egede expressed a shift in sentiment towards the U.S., emphasizing the importance of fostering relationships with countries that demonstrate respect for Greenland's aspirations.
Egede conveyed his outlook on Greenland's future, advocating for self-determination and stressing the island's ownership by its 57,000 residents. He advocates for Greenland's full independence.
Despite Greenland's abundant mineral, oil, and natural gas resources, economic progress has been gradual, with a heavy reliance on fishing and annual subsidies from Denmark.
A recent poll revealed that 85% of Greenlanders prefer to maintain independence, with nearly half perceiving Trump's interest as a potential threat.