Greenland’s right-wing Demokraatit party pulled off a surprise victory in the country’s parliamentary elections, ousting Prime Minister Múte Egede’s Inuit Ataqatigi party from power. The topic of independence from Denmark became a major focus during the election, especially following U.S. President Donald Trump’s repeated comments regarding the possibility of the U.S. taking control.

In an interview, Demokraatit’s leader, Jens-Frederik Nielsen, mentioned the electorate’s desire for change, stating, “People want change … We want more business to finance our welfare.” However, he clarified that Greenland does not “want independence tomorrow,” advocating for a well-prepared transition from Denmark.

Greenland, with a population of approximately 57,000, currently operates as a semi-autonomous territory of Denmark. Trump’s renewed interest in the island reignited discussions about potential independence.

Prime Minister Egede, whose party lost control, posted on Facebook respecting the election outcome and stating that the parties are ready for negotiations.

In response, Danish Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen congratulated Demokraatit and acknowledged the significant influence Trump’s stance could have on Greenland’s future, emphasizing that Greenland’s future should be determined by the Greenlandic people and their government.

Demокраatit saw a significant increase in support, winning nearly 30% of the vote, up from just 9% in 2021.

Addressing a joint session of Congress earlier this month, Trump expressed support for Greenland’s right to determine its future and indicated that the U.S. would welcome Greenland into its fold for national and international security purposes. This statement sparked reactions, including from Greenland and Panama, who firmly rejected Trump’s ambitions.

Source: https://www.foxnews.com/world/greenlands-center-right-party-pulls-off-upset-victory-trump-seeks-control