Greenland’s recent election brought a political shift, with domestic issues—rather than U.S. President Donald Trump’s ambitions—driving voters to the polls. The center-right Democrats, led by Jens Frederik Nielsen, emerged as the largest party, unseating the Inuit Ataqatigiit (IA). However, with no outright majority, coalition talks will determine the island’s stance on U.S. relations and potential independence from Denmark.
Trump has made no secret of his desire to bring Greenland under U.S. control, hinting at economic incentives and even military force. His son, Donald Trump Jr., made a high-profile visit to Nuuk in January, reinforcing the administration’s interest. A day before the vote, Trump declared that the U.S. was ready to “make [Greenlanders] rich.”
Despite this, voters prioritized business, fisheries, healthcare, and pensions over foreign policy. Naleraq, the party most aligned with Trump’s vision of closer U.S.-Greenland ties and rapid independence, placed second. While Nielsen has indicated he is open to talks with Naleraq, he favors a slower, more measured path toward independence.
If Naleraq joins the coalition, Greenland could move closer to Trump’s strategic orbit, potentially opening the door for increased U.S. influence. However, should Nielsen partner with other parties, Trump’s ambitions may face significant resistance. With coalition negotiations expected to take weeks, Greenland’s future remains uncertain in terms of its autonomy and its relationship with the U.S..
