Greenland’s Union Leader Rejects Trump’s Claims of National Security Threat
The chair of Greenland’s largest labor union, Jess Berthelsen, has firmly stated that the territory “will not be annexed,” directly countering claims made by former President Donald Trump. Trump had asserted that Greenland’s current status represents a national security risk for the United States.
In a recent interview, Berthelsen, who heads the national trade union confederation SIK, expressed skepticism regarding Trump’s allegations about the presence of Russian and Chinese naval vessels in Greenland’s waters. “We can’t see it, we can’t recognize it, and we can’t understand it,” he explained.
The Trump administration has escalated its rhetoric around Greenland in recent days, hinting at military intervention as a serious possibility, particularly in light of the recent raid in Venezuela aimed at ousting Nicolás Maduro.
During a discussion with journalists aboard Air Force One, Trump claimed, “We need Greenland from the standpoint of national security,” asserting that the waters were filled with foreign vessels. However, Berthelsen contested this assertion, stating that local realities do not support such claims.
“In Greenland, it’s hard to recognize the demands Trump is setting,” he remarked, emphasizing the lack of evidence for Trump’s allegations. He noted that both the Danish navy and local fishing boats are prevalent in the area, challenging the notion of foreign military threats.
Berthelsen highlighted Greenland’s semi-autonomous status within the Kingdom of Denmark, stressing the territory’s self-governance. He stated that the people of Greenland desire independence, with a recent poll indicating that about 84% of residents support this aim. The labor union is focused on improving conditions for workers and negotiating better agreements with local authorities and private businesses.
He asserted, “We are not for sale, and we will not be annexed,” reiterating the need for autonomy and a collaborative relationship with Denmark and the US. Berthelsen concluded by expressing discomfort over what he perceives as threats from a longtime ally, noting that such intimidation undermines potential cooperation.
