“This is the best time to push for independence from the pressure of the United States,” declared pro-independence Greenlandic MP Kuno Fencker.
Speaking to Brussels Signal, Fencker expressed optimism about recent American interest in Greenland despite threats from the US against Denmark with punitive tariffs if the Danish government resists American plans.
“We all see it—the United States is playing a role in Greenland’s independence and self-determination by pressuring Denmark as they are,” Fencker told Brussels Signal on January 27.
Donald Trump himself has tied Greenland’s potential to broader ideals of liberty, which Fencker finds encouraging.
“I do believe, we’ll get [Greenland] because it really has to do with freedom of the world,” Trump said on January 25.
For Fencker, the current spotlight on Greenland gives the island unprecedented leverage.
“Denmark can no longer ignore Greenland’s push for sovereignty,” he argued.
“Every time we speak about independence or equal footing as States, they threaten to take away our education and healthcare.”
Denmark currently sends approximately €1 billion annually to Greenland to fund social services, but Fencker insists that financial ties should not dictate sovereignty.
“This couldn’t be a better time to negotiate a deal with Denmark,” he said.
The MP has been eyeing the perfect opportunity to break free from Denmark and has become a central component in reigniting the independence debate in Greenland.
Fencker spearheaded a proposal last spring to establish a Section 21 Commission, based on the Self-Government Act, which outlines the steps toward Greenland’s independence.
The process requires a referendum in Greenland, followed by negotiations between Nuuk and Copenhagen, with the final agreement also needing approval from the Danish Parliament.
He has been pushing to active the article ever since.
🇬🇱 #greenland is taking concrete steps toward #sovereignty. In Spring 2024, I proposed a resolution to establish a commission under Section 21 of the Self-Government Act. Now it’s time to activate the article and, in parallel, begin negotiations for statehood. 🇬🇱 #cooperation pic.twitter.com/XJdoB6MLbO
— Kuno Fencker (@KunoFencker) January 26, 2025
While Fencker emphasized Greenland’s desire for self-rule, he highlighted that the island would not become another US territory.
“We want a sovereign state—that is non-negotiable. We are not for sale. We will not become part of the US or remain an unwilling territory of Denmark,” he declared.
However, the MP sees economic opportunities in fostering ties with Washington.
The Greenlandic MPs have made numerous trips to the United States in recent weeks, exploring potential partnerships.
Fencker believes such relationships are critical for Greenland’s future, especially regarding direct agreements with the US on airbases and military presence.
Met with over 300 lovely American people: 🇬🇱Greenland is not for sale. I'm working towards sovereignty and more collaboration with USA🇺🇸. Denmark has no right to sell us. Everything I’ve said aligns with Siumut’s policies. #security #defence #diversification #economy pic.twitter.com/UYZefuoT7V
— Kuno Fencker (@KunoFencker) January 26, 2025
