Denmark & Greenland Protest Trump’s Greenland Annexation – Jan 2026

Protesters Rally in Denmark and Greenland Against Trump’s Annexation Threat

On January 17, 2026, political tensions surged in Northern Europe as thousands of people in Denmark and its autonomous territory Greenland took to the streets to protest against U.S. President Donald Trump’s alleged attempts to annex Greenland or bring it under U.S. control. These demonstrations have sparked a national crisis in Denmark and Greenland and escalated into a significant global diplomatic issue.

President Trump has repeatedly emphasized that Greenland, with its strategic Arctic location and rich mineral resources, should come under U.S. control to prevent influence from rival powers like Russia and China. He argued that securing Greenland is essential for U.S. national security.

In Copenhagen, hundreds of demonstrators gathered at City Hall Square, carrying banners reading “Greenland is not for sale” and chanting “Hands off Greenland.” The march extended to the U.S. Embassy, sending a clear message of resistance. Other major Danish cities, including Aarhus, Aalborg, and Odense, also saw mass rallies. Protesters waved both Danish and Greenlandic flags, including the Greenlandic “Erfalasorput” flag, emphasizing their solidarity and determination to protect autonomy.

Residents and political representatives of Greenland stressed that their self-governance, democracy, and future decisions should not be dictated by any foreign power. They insisted that decisions regarding Greenland should be made solely by the people of Greenland and Denmark. Julie Rademacher, Chairperson of the Greenlandic organization Uagut, stated:

“We are fighting for Greenland’s freedom and human rights. Our message is clear: we will determine our own destiny.”

In Copenhagen alone, approximately 20,000 people joined the protests, spreading across hundreds of streets throughout the day. Thousands more participated in demonstrations in other Danish cities. In Greenland’s capital Nuuk, hundreds of residents also took part in rallies, showing nationwide solidarity.

Following the protests, tensions between the U.S. and Denmark intensified. President Trump threatened to impose a 10% tariff on countries opposing the U.S. plan for Greenland, warning it could increase to 25% by June if no agreement is reached. Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen condemned any attempt to pressure Greenland, calling it a violation of NATO principles and international law.

A bipartisan U.S. congressional delegation visited Denmark, reassuring Denmark and Greenland that many Americans oppose the annexation. The delegation emphasized that the U.S. should be seen as a partner, not a dominating power attempting to seize Greenland.

Conclusion

These protests are not just a reaction from Denmark and Greenland; they send a powerful message about sovereignty, international cooperation, and responsible use of power. The demonstrations highlight that even smaller nations can assert their freedom and self-determination, standing firm against pressure from global powers. This event will likely influence Arctic geopolitics and international diplomatic norms in the coming years.