Greenland election sees surge for pro-US party, independence question looms

The opposition “center-right” Democrats won the elections in Greenland, while the pro-US Naleraq party recorded its best result ever.

The Democrats, who describe themselves as “pro-business,” received approximately 30% of the votes, more than tripling their vote share from the previous election in 2021.

The party supports Greenland’s independence, but this independence will be realized “gradually” after the autonomous region, which is dependent on Denmark, has “further developed” politically and economically.

Party leader Jens-Frederik Nielsen said Greenland was not for sale and opposed US President Donald Trump’s desire to buy Greenland, calling the aggressive attempts “a threat to our political independence.”

The other big winner of the night was the Naleraq party, which doubled its vote share from 2021. Naleraq wants an immediate referendum to secede from Denmark and supports closer ties with the US, including a potential free association agreement.

Meanwhile, Inuit Ataqatigiit and Siumut, which ruled the island in a coalition, came in third and fourth, respectively. No party achieved an absolute majority.

Trump’s statements have fueled discussions about Greenland’s future, such as whether Greenland will remain part of Denmark, seek full independence, or enter into an agreement with the US. According to local media, voters went to the polls on Tuesday, with turnout significantly increasing compared to 2021.

Although the more cautious Democrats came in first place, the election result, in which the pro-independence and pro-US cooperation Naleraq party saw great support, indicates that Greenlanders are divided on the best way forward.