On Saturday, hundreds of protesters gathered outside the United States Embassy in Østerbro, Copenhagen, to voice their support for Greenland’s right to self-determination and to denounce what they perceive as increasing American pressure on the Arctic island. The demonstration comes just one day after USA Vice President J.D. Vance visited Greenland and issued harsh criticism of Denmark, reigniting geopolitical tensions between Washington and Copenhagen.
With chants and banners reading “Greenland belongs to the Greenlanders” and “Greenland is not for sale,” the protest conveyed a clear message: a rejection of American ambitions in the Arctic and solidarity with Greenlandic autonomy. The event was organized by activists Anders Franssen, Henriette Berthelsen, and Karen Littauer, who condemned what they described as the U.S. government’s “transgressive” behavior.
“We are demonstrating against the American pressure being exerted on Greenland and Denmark. Not least the unwanted visit from the U.S. government. We want peaceful communication between our countries. We support Greenland 100%! Greenland belongs to the Greenlanders,” read a statement from the organizers.
Karen Littauer, speaking to TV2 ahead of the protest, accused former President Donald Trump of attempting to divide Denmark and Greenland.
“It is clear that Trump is trying to divide Denmark and Greenland. We have a very close relationship going back many years. The Danes have done great things for Greenland, but we have also made mistakes for which we must apologize,” she said.
Tensions escalate after US Vice President criticizes Denmark
The demonstration followed Vice President Vance’s visit to Greenland, where he voiced sharp criticism of Denmark’s role in the region. While the specific remarks have not been fully disclosed, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen responded with strong words, expressing frustration over what she saw as a lack of respect from the U.S.
“For many years, we have stood by the Americans in very difficult situations. Therefore, it is not appropriate for the Vice President to speak about Denmark in this way,” Frederiksen stated.
Though the protest remained peaceful, it underscored the growing unease among Danes and Greenlanders over USA interests in the Arctic. The memory of Donald Trump’s proposal to buy Greenland still lingers.
Greenland at the crossroads: autonomy, diplomacy, and strategic interests
Greenland, an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, has increasingly asserted its political and economic independence in recent years. Rich in natural resources and strategically positioned in the Arctic, it has become a focal point in global geopolitical rivalries.
The United States has maintained a military presence on the island through the Thule Air Base (Pituffik), and recent moves suggest a renewed American interest in securing greater influence in the region. However, local and international voices alike have pushed back, calling for respect for Greenlandic agency and democratic self-governance.
Saturday’s protest in Copenhagen may signal a shift in Danish public opinion, with growing awareness of the complex relationship between Denmark, Greenland, and the United States. As global powers compete for influence in the Arctic, Greenland’s future will likely remain a key issue in both domestic and international politics.
