70% of Americans Oppose Greenland’s Potential Annexation

A recent poll reveals that a significant majority of Americans are against the idea of Greenland joining the United States. Conducted in March 2025, the survey found that 70% of respondents oppose the annexation of the autonomous region, which is part of the Kingdom of Denmark. This public sentiment stands in stark contrast to the interests expressed by some U.S. leaders, including former President Donald Trump, who has framed the control of Greenland as a matter of national security.

The poll, published on March 29, 2025, indicates that only a small fraction of Americans support the idea of annexing Greenland. Many cite a reluctance to expand the nation’s territorial commitments, particularly when pressing domestic issues like the economy and healthcare demand immediate attention. While Greenland, the world’s largest island, is recognized for its strategic importance in the Arctic and its potential natural resources, including rare earth minerals, these factors have not swayed public opinion in favor of annexation. Political analysts suggest that the idea is often viewed as a remnant of outdated imperialistic policies that do not resonate with contemporary values.

In Greenland itself, the desire to remain independent from U.S. control is equally pronounced. A separate poll conducted in early 2025 by the Danish newspaper Berlingske and the Greenlandic publication Sermitsiaq found that only 6% of Greenlanders support joining the United States, while 85% oppose the notion. Greenlandic Prime Minister Mute Egede has reiterated the island’s intention to pursue independence from Denmark rather than submit to another power, a sentiment reflected in the recent electoral success of the pro-sovereignty Democratic party.

The discussion surrounding Greenland’s future has intensified, particularly as Trump has reignited calls for U.S. control, citing the need to safeguard American interests in the Arctic amid increasing Russian and Chinese activities in the region. Vice President J.D. Vance echoed these sentiments, arguing for a serious approach to Greenland’s security, even if it contradicts prevailing public opinion. Critics, particularly from the Democratic Party, label such ambitions as impractical and potentially harmful to relations with NATO allies, including Denmark.

In a related development, Denmark announced a substantial investment of 14.6 billion kroner (approximately $2 billion) to bolster its military presence in the Arctic, including Greenland. This move comes in response to U.S. pressure for Copenhagen to enhance its defense capabilities in the region. Meanwhile, the European Union has voiced support for Denmark’s stance, emphasizing that any changes to Greenland’s status must respect the will of its people. Experts warn that tensions among Washington, Copenhagen, and Nuuk are likely to escalate if the U.S. administration persists in its territorial ambitions.