NUUK / COPENHAGEN, Jan. 17, 2026 — Thousands of Greenlanders took to the snowy streets of Nuuk, Greenland’s capital, on Saturday in a historic protest against U.S. President Donald Trump’s escalating threats to acquire control of the Arctic island. Chanting “Greenland is not for sale,” demonstrators waved the island’s green-white flag and carried signs demanding respect for their sovereignty and democratic rights.
The march, one of the largest ever seen in Nuuk’s history, drew citizens of all ages — many enduring near-freezing temperatures — as they made their way toward the U.S. Consulate in a powerful show of unity. Greenland’s Prime Minister, Jens-Frederik Nielsen, joined the crowd, stressing that the island’s future should be determined by its people, not foreign powers.
Protests also spread beyond Greenland, with thousands gathering in Copenhagen and other Danish cities to support the island’s self-governance and reject what organizers describe as coercive tactics from the United States. Brussels, Paris, and other European capitals have voiced solidarity with Greenland’s call for respect of international law and democratic self-determination.
The demonstrations were triggered by a series of controversial statements and policies from the Trump administration that include threats of tariffs on European allies and renewed interest in acquiring Greenland through diplomatic or other means. Trump has argued that Greenland’s strategic Arctic position and rich mineral resources make it vital to U.S. national security — comments that have drawn sharp criticism from both allies and the Greenlandic public.
Organizers of the so-called “Hands off Greenland” rallies declared that the movement is about far more than territory — it’s about defending culture, autonomy, and democratic values. Protesters carried banners with slogans like “Kalaallit Nunaat” (Greenland’s name in the native language) and “Hands off Greenland!” as they made their voices heard.
Despite geopolitical tensions, Greenland’s leadership continues to emphasize diplomatic engagement. Meanwhile, the island’s population — a small but proud community of around 56,000 — has united in its rejection of any threat to its self-rule. Analysts say the protests reflect long-standing resistance to external control and growing national pride among Greenlanders.
