Greenlanders went to the polls on Tuesday in an election that has drawn international attention following United States President Donald Trump’s pledge to take control of the mineral-rich island, intensifying debate over its future and independence.
Since assuming office in January, Trump has reiterated his intention to make Greenland, a semi-autonomous territory of Denmark, part of the United States, arguing that the island is crucial to U.S. security interests.
The election comes amid growing geopolitical competition in the Arctic, as melting ice caps make the island’s natural resources more accessible and open new maritime routes.
Russia and China have also ramped up military presence in the region, increasing its strategic significance.
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Greenland, home to just 57,000 people, was a Danish colony before becoming a territory in 1953.
It secured limited autonomy in 1979 with the formation of its first parliament, although Denmark still retains control over foreign affairs, defence and monetary policy, and provides nearly $1 billion annually to support its economy.
In 2009, Greenland gained the right to declare full independence through a referendum but has yet to exercise it due to concerns over the potential impact on living standards without continued Danish financial backing.
Voting began at 1100 GMT across 72 polling stations on the island, with 40,500 people eligible to cast their ballots. Polls will close at 2200 GMT, and final results are expected between 0100 GMT and 0300 GMT on Wednesday.
“I’m feeling very excited. I hope that people will vote with their common sense and without greed,” Liv Aurora, a candidate with the ruling Inuit Ataqatigiit party, said at a polling station in the capital Nuuk. “I hope to make a difference and to make Greenland strong and independent.”
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