Greenland’s Underground Off-Limits Amid Political Pressures
In a decisive response to political maneuvers from the U.S. administration, Malene Vahl Rasmussen, the mayor of Kujalleq, has made it unmistakably clear: “Greenland’s underground is not for sale based on political pressure, derisive statements, or lack of respect. Period.” This sentiment was conveyed in an open letter addressed to President Trump and his administration.
The mayor’s remarks come on the heels of a month marked by intense pressure from President Trump concerning Greenland and Denmark. With Kujalleq housing the country’s largest deposits of minerals and rare earth elements, it has become a focal point for potential foreign investments, particularly from the United States.
However, according to Rasmussen, the prospect of American investment is dim as long as U.S. leaders continue to engage in disrespectful dialogue. “When talking down to Greenland, to our institutions, our allies, and our people, any form of trust is undermined,” she asserts. “And without trust, there is no access— not a gram.”
Legislation Designed to Protect People and the Environment
Greenland regained control over its subsoil rights with the introduction of the Self-Government Act in 2009. Since then, local lawmakers have enacted a mineral law and an environmental law, aimed at ensuring the protection of people, wildlife, and the environment during any mineral extraction processes. Mayor Rasmussen emphasizes that these laws must be adhered to by everyone, regardless of their status.
“These laws apply in full—no matter who knocks on the door, and no matter how big or powerful a nation may be. They are not negotiable,” she asserts firmly.
The Trump administration has publicly stated the need for U.S. ownership of Greenland, citing concerns over American and global security due to perceived threats from both China and Russia. At the same time, there is unabashed interest in accessing Greenland’s abundant natural resources.
Yet, as the situation stands, access to these resources remains firmly closed, according to the mayor. “The Greenlandic people have power over their land and their resources. Respect is what your administration notably lacks in this context,” she concludes.
In a related development, just this past Wednesday evening, President Trump and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte reached a tentative agreement concerning military presence in Greenland. Details of this agreement have yet to be disclosed, leaving many with lingering questions about what the future holds for this strategically significant territory.