Greenland should engage in direct talks with the United States without Denmark’s involvement, said Pele Broberg, leader of the opposition party Naleraq, on Thursday.
The Arctic island is currently assessing how to respond to U.S. efforts to secure influence over Greenland, following renewed proposals by former President Donald Trump, who has previously expressed interest in making Greenland part of the United States, a goal first raised in 2019 during his first term.
Greenland occupies a strategically vital position between Europe and North America, making it crucial for the U.S. missile defense system. Its rich mineral resources also align with Washington’s aim to reduce dependence on China.
While Greenland is an autonomous territory of the Kingdom of Denmark with its own Parliament and Government, Copenhagen retains authority over foreign affairs and defense.
“We call on our Government to engage in real dialogue with the U.S. without Denmark,” Broberg told Reuters.
“Denmark is antagonizing both Greenland and the U.S. with its mediation,” he added.
Naleraq, which strongly supports full and rapid independence for Greenland, doubled its parliamentary seats to eight in last year’s elections, securing 25% of votes in a population of just 57,000.
Although excluded from the governing coalition, the party aims for a defense agreement with Washington and could seek a “free association” deal, in which Greenland would receive U.S. protection and support without becoming American territory.
While all parties in Greenland support independence, they differ on the method and timing of achieving it.
The Greenlandic Foreign Minister, Vivian Motzfeldt, stressed that Greenland cannot legally negotiate directly with the U.S. without Denmark.
“We must respect the law and follow the rules regarding how matters are resolved within the Kingdom,” she told Sermitsiaq.
A meeting is scheduled next week between the Danish and Greenlandic foreign ministers and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio to address tensions among NATO allies. Motzfeldt said she hopes the talks will stabilize Greenland-U.S. relations.
Views within the Trump administration vary: Rubio reportedly opposes military intervention, while others suggest it remains an option.
“We will ensure America’s interests are protected,” said U.S. Vice President JD Vance on Fox News.
“And the president is willing to go as far as necessary to make it happen,” he added.
