‘Talk of annexing Greenland unacceptable’ — Incoming PM Nielsen

The incoming Prime Minister of Greenland, Jens-Frederik Nielsen, on Friday dismissed talk of annexing the semi-autonomous Danish island as unacceptable.

His remarks came in response to comments by United States Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, who had suggested that Denmark should focus on the fact that Greenlanders do not wish to remain part of Denmark.

The exchange follows months of diplomatic tension between Washington and both Copenhagen and Nuuk, stemming from U.S. President Donald Trump’s repeated assertions that the Arctic island ought to become part of the United States.

“We are human beings up here; we are not a piece of property that can be bought. Partnerships and cooperation can always be discussed, but talk of annexation is unacceptable,” Nielsen stated.

Rubio, speaking earlier on Friday during a press conference following a NATO foreign ministers’ meeting in Brussels, reiterated that “Greenlanders are going to make a decision,” and insisted that Denmark ought to acknowledge the islanders’ apparent desire for independence. Greenland remains a semi-autonomous territory under the Kingdom of Denmark.

However, Nielsen rebuffed Rubio’s remarks, arguing that the senator was mistaken in his interpretation of Greenlandic sentiment.

“He is correct in observing that Greenland does not wish to be Danish, but Greenland certainly does not aspire to be American either,” Nielsen responded.

“We are working diligently, every day, to build a foundation that will allow us to stand independently in the future — but we are not there yet. What he says doesn’t hold water,” he added.

DAILY POST reports that Nielsen’s new coalition government is expected to be formally inaugurated on 7th April.

‘Talk of annexing Greenland unacceptable’ — Incoming PM Nielsen