Greenland may pursue independence, unlikely to join U.S. as Denmark’s minister addresses Trump’s Arctic remarks and rising geopolitical tensions.

Greenland’s potential for independence has been discussed in light of recent remarks by U.S. President-elect Donald Trump regarding the Arctic island.

Denmark’s foreign minister confirmed on Wednesday that while Greenland could pursue independence, it is unlikely to become a U.S. state.

Trump’s comments suggested he would not dismiss the idea of using military or economic means regarding Greenland, a statement made after his son visited the island.

The strategic importance of Greenland, which is under Danish sovereignty, lies in its resources and its role in NATO, particularly for U.S. military operations and missile defence systems.

The island has been ruled by Denmark for 600 years, but its 57,000 residents currently manage their own affairs. The Greenlandic government, led by Prime Minister Mute Egede, has aspirations for full independence.

Lars Lokke Rasmussen, Denmark’s foreign minister, acknowledged Greenland’s ambitions and clarified that any movement towards independence would not revolve around joining the U.S.

He also mentioned that the United States’ concerns about security in the Arctic, particularly given Russian and Chinese activities in the region, are justified.