Greenland, on the eve of elections - The future of the island at a "crossroads", after Trump's interest
Greenland will vote on March 11 in a general election, just a week after U.S. President Donald Trump reiterated his interest in the Arctic island. Trump invited the native population to join the United States, taking a more conciliatory tone than in previous comments about control of the territory.
A movement in Greenland for independence from Denmark, which began in the 1970s, has gained momentum in recent months. The victory of political parties favoring early independence could pave the way for greater U.S. influence.
Relations between Greenland and Denmark have soured following revelations of historical mistreatment of the natives under colonial rule. However, Trump's interest in making the island part of the United States has prompted Denmark to accelerate work to improve its ties with Greenland.
Polls show that most Greenlanders support independence, but they are divided about the time frame and the potential impact on living standards.
Trump's interest has shocked Greenland and, combined with growing Inuit pride, has led some of the island's 57,000 residents to see this month's election as a historic chance to free the country from Danish influence.
However, many people warn against hasty action, fearing that Greenland could deteriorate and become exposed to the United States if it seeks independence from Denmark too quickly.
Since 2019, politicians on the island have repeatedly said they are interested in strengthening cooperation and trade with the US.
However, Greenlandic Prime Minister Mute Egede, who has stepped up efforts for independence, has stressed that the island is not for sale and that only its people should decide on their future.
Greenland's strategic location and resources have gained the attention of the US. The territory lies along the shortest route from Europe to North America and is vital to the US ballistic missile warning system.
The United States has expressed interest in expanding its existing military presence on the island, including deploying radars to monitor the waters between the island, Iceland and Britain, which are a gateway for Russian navy ships and nuclear submarines.
The island, whose capital Nuuk is closer to New York than the Danish capital Copenhagen, boasts mineral, oil and natural gas wealth, but development has been slow.
Asked for comment, a White House official said that "Greenland has an abundant supply of rare earth minerals that will power the next generation of the American economy."
However, until now, Greenland's economy has remained dependent on fishing, which accounts for over 95% of exports. Also, almost half of the public budget is covered by annual subsidies from Denmark, which amount to around 554 million euros per year.
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