How Firm is the Greenlandic PM on Sovereignty?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Oslo, Jan 23 (NationPress) Greenlandic Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen emphasized that sovereignty is a non-negotiable aspect of his administration, even in the face of mounting pressure from the United States.
"Our territorial integrity and borders are unequivocal red lines that cannot be crossed," Nielsen stated during a press briefing in Nuuk, the capital of Greenland, on Thursday. "Greenland chooses the identity we uphold today, as an integral part of the Kingdom of Denmark."
US President Donald Trump mentioned on Wednesday that he has dismissed the option of using military force to acquire Greenland. He asserted that discussions with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg had laid out "the framework for a future deal" regarding Greenland and the wider Arctic area, as reported by the Xinhua news agency.
Nonetheless, Nielsen expressed uncertainty about the specific elements of this framework. He emphasized that only Greenland and Denmark have the authority to make decisions pertaining to Greenland and its administration.
When asked if Greenland feels secure now, Nielsen acknowledged that before Trump's statement on Wednesday, the possibility of a US military intervention could not be entirely ruled out.
He insisted that future discussions must occur with full recognition of Greenland's sovereignty.
Earlier on Thursday, Trump conveyed to Fox Business that the White House is in the process of negotiating a deal for US "complete access" to Denmark's Greenland indefinitely.
Trump remarked that the deal was still under negotiation when pressed for details while on his way back from the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.
"The time frame is eternal, meaning there is no time limit. It's forever. You know, you're talking about 99 years, 50 years. It's forever. That was part of our discussions," Trump told reporters. "We can pursue any action we desire, including military options, and it's currently being negotiated. Let's see how it unfolds. I believe it will be beneficial."
When inquired whether Denmark supports the plan, Trump replied, "I believe everyone is in favor. I mean, I think, I will inform you in about two weeks."