Greenland leader backs independence from US and Denmark

According to RIA Novosti, Greenland leader Mute Egede said on January 13 that Greenlanders want independence and to decide their own future.

"The people of Greenland do not want to be Danish or American. They want to decide their own future and the future of their country," said Mr. Egede.

Asked whether the US intends to increase its military presence on the island, Mr. Egede replied that Greenland is negotiating defense issues with relevant partners, but it is too early to talk about this topic.

Greenland's leader stressed that the island is ready to cooperate not only with the United States - especially in the field of exploiting natural resources here, but also with other countries to strengthen its independence.

"We see that the world is changing. Powerful countries are at the doorstep of the Arctic. Greenland can benefit from this by cooperating with them," Mr. Egede believes.

He also noted that the island recognizes Russia's role and position in the international arena. In addition, according to Egede, the statements of US President-elect Donald Trump are "interesting but should not be frightening".

"The people of Greenland must unite to survive together in this new situation," the Greenland leader added.

Before officially taking office as president, Donald Trump repeatedly stated that Greenland should become part of the United States. According to Trump, the island is of strategic importance to US national security. At the same time, the future White House boss did not rule out the possibility of using military force to establish control over this Danish territory.