Recent and ongoing issues and controversies surrounding Greenland include:
- US Interest in Acquiring Greenland: President Trump’s continued interest in acquiring Greenland has caused controversy and has strained relations between Greenland and the US . This includes discussions of using economic or military force to acquire the island .
- Strategic Importance: Greenland’s location is strategically important due to Arctic geopolitics, potential trans-Arctic shipping routes, and U.S. military capabilities .
- Natural Resources: Melting ice is making Greenland’s mineral and hydrocarbon deposits more accessible, leading to interest from other countries . However, mining projects have stalled due to environmental concerns and economic feasibility .
- Self-Determination: The Greenland Self-Government Act recognizes Greenlanders’ right to self-determination, meaning Greenland cannot be acquired without their consent .
- Environmental Concerns: The melting ice sheet and unique ecosystems in Greenland raise concerns about climate change and the need for environmental research .
- Relationship with the US: Greenland’s foreign policy has focused on the US, but strained relations may lead to revisiting partnerships with Europe and other countries .
- Danish Colonial History: Allegations of mistreatment of Greenlanders by Denmark, including an IUD scandal and controversial “parenting competency” tests, have caused public anger .
Greenland has been a point of contention in several contexts:
- Between Nuuk, Copenhagen, and Washington: The air base in Greenland has been a long-standing issue among Nuuk, Copenhagen, and Washington .
- Rare earth minerals: Greenland’s vast holdings of rare earth minerals have made it a point of contention .
- Maritime Disputes: Sovereignty over the Northwest Passage remains a contentious issue involving Canada, the U.S., and some European countries .
- U.S. Takeover: In March 2025, there were reports of tension between the U.S. and Denmark, with the U.S. pressing for a takeover of the island and accusations of Denmark underinvesting in Greenland .
- Defense Issues: There have been disputes over Greenland’s defense, with the U.S. potentially using military or economic force to seize the island, causing friction with allies .
- Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline: The Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline project has also been a point of disagreement .
