'No means no': Greenlanders protest against Trump outside new US consulate

Hundreds of Greenlanders protested outside the newly inaugurated US consulate in Nuuk, Greenland, on Friday. The demonstration was a response to President Donald Trump's expressed ambition for greater US influence and control over the island. Organizers stated that Greenland is not for sale and emphasized that "no means no" in a democratic world. The protest coincided with the first trip to Greenland by the US president's special envoy, Jeff Landry, and follows previous declarations by Trump regarding US ownership of the island. Protesters chanted "Greenland is for Greenlanders" and stood in silence with their backs to the consulate, aiming to send a message to the American people and the world.

Hundreds protested the opening of a new US consulate in Nuuk, Greenland, following comments by US special envoy Jeff Landry that it was time for Washington "to put its footprint back" on the Arctic territory. Many Greenlandic politicians, including the prime minister, boycotted the opening. Protesters expressed strong opposition to increased US presence, carrying signs and shouting slogans emphasizing Greenland's self-determination. Landry's uninvited visit and remarks about US security operations and potential base repopulation fueled the backlash. Negotiations between the US, Greenland, and Denmark continue regarding potential US defense investments and expanded presence in Greenland, despite ongoing coalition talks in Denmark.

Jeff Landry, President Trump's special envoy to Greenland, is on his first visit to the semi-autonomous Danish territory to build relationships and make "friends." Landry stated his purpose is to "look, listen and learn." However, his visit has been met with some resistance, with Greenlandic Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen reiterating that Greenland is "not for sale." This trip follows a diplomatic crisis initiated by President Trump's previous threat to seize Greenland. Landry, also the Governor of Louisiana, is attending a business summit and the opening of a new US consulate. A US doctor accompanying Landry to assess medical needs was criticized by Greenland's Health Minister as "deeply problematic," echoing Greenland's rejection of a US hospital ship offer.