As Donald Trump's threat to buy Greenland stirs global controversy, Denmark's foreign minister reaffirms their recognition of Greenland's autonomy and dismisses any possibility of the island becoming a US state. However, amid increased US interest in the Arctic region, Trump's willingness to use force or economic measures to acquire Greenland has prompted concerns from European allies. As talks between Greenland's leader and the Danish king take place, there is a growing focus on the island's push for independence and allegations of colonial-era mistreatment.
Trump's Greenland Ambitions: A Saga of Sovereignty, Autonomy, and Geopolitics
Donald Trump's 2019 proposal to purchase Greenland from Denmark sparked a global outcry. The move highlighted a clash of interests in the Arctic region and raised questions about Greenland's autonomy and the future of international relations in the far north.
Background: Greenland's Colonial Past and Autonomy
Greenland, the world's largest island, has been a Danish territory since 1814. However, a process of home rule began in 1979, giving Greenland significant autonomy in domestic affairs. Greenland's population of 56,000 is predominantly Inuit, and the island has a strong drive for independence.
Trump's Proposal and Denmark's Response
In August 2019, Trump reportedly expressed interest in buying Greenland for strategic military purposes. Denmark's Foreign Minister Anders Samuelsen promptly dismissed the proposal as "absurd" and reaffirmed Greenland's autonomy within the Danish realm.
Geopolitical Concerns
Trump's proposal coincided with increased US interest in the Arctic, which is becoming more accessible due to climate change. The region holds vast mineral resources and potential shipping routes, making it a strategic hotspot. Trump's willingness to use force or economic pressure to acquire Greenland raised concerns among European allies, who feared a potential disruption to the stability of the Arctic.
Greenland's Independence Movement
Amid the controversy, Greenland's independence movement gained momentum. Greenland's Prime Minister Kim Kielsen and King Frederik of Denmark held talks to discuss the island's future. Kielsen emphasized Greenland's right to self-determination and expressed concern about Denmark's handling of the Trump proposal.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers
Why did Trump want to buy Greenland? Trump reportedly wanted to acquire Greenland for military purposes, as it would give the US greater access to the Arctic region.
Can Denmark sell Greenland? Denmark cannot legally sell Greenland without the consent of the Greenlandic people. Greenland enjoys autonomy in domestic affairs and has a strong drive for independence.
Will Greenland become independent? Greenland's future status is uncertain. The island is seeking greater autonomy, but complete independence would require a referendum approved by both Greenland and Denmark.
What is the significance of the Arctic region? The Arctic is becoming increasingly accessible due to climate change. It holds vast mineral resources and potential shipping routes, making it a strategic geopolitical hotspot.
What is the history of Denmark's colonial rule in Greenland? Denmark has been in control of Greenland since 1814, but has gradually granted the island greater autonomy. There are allegations of colonial-era mistreatment, which have become a topic of debate in recent years.
President Donald Trump is meeting with leaders of five Central Asian countries to discuss their vast reserves of rare earth metals, while also addressing a key point of friction in ongoing trade negotiations with China. The meeting comes on the heels of Trump's talks with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, where China agreed to delay their new export restrictions on rare earth elements. The U.S. is now seeking new ways to secure critical minerals, and the region is hoping for investment to develop their resources further.
US President Donald Trump has expressed concern over the tone of incoming New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani's victory speech, calling it "angry" and advising him to adopt a more cooperative approach. In response, Mamdani has urged Trump to "turn the volume up" and vowed to hold "bad landlords" accountable, citing Trump as an example. Trump has hinted at offering limited federal help to New York under Mamdani's leadership, but has also expressed doubt towards the mayor-elect's left-leaning policies. This clash between the two leaders marks a tense beginning to their relationship.
Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar flagged off 14 participants from 7 countries as part of the International Election Visitors’ Programme 2025 to witness voting in the Phase-I of the Bihar Assembly Elections. The participants attended an inaugural session and were provided with a demonstration of the EVMs and a presentation on various aspects of elections in India. The participants will then embark on a two-day tour of Bihar to visit EVM dispatch centers and witness the actual polling on November 6. Since 2014, the IEVP has been showcasing the strengths of India's electoral system and sharing best practices with international election management bodies. The first phase of the Bihar Assembly elections, featuring 121 constituencies and over 3 crore voters, will be held on November 6.
The recent police raid in Brazil, which resulted in one of the deadliest operations in Rio's history, has sparked outrage and protests. Families of the victims claimed that their loved ones were executed by the police, while the government celebrates it as a win against crime. Shocking images of bodies lined up in the street have led to widespread protests and accusations of police brutality. However, official reports and videos of victims' bodies suggest that the deaths were not a result of armed conflict, raising questions about the excessive use of force by the police.
Four people have died and 11 have been injured after a UPS cargo plane crashed near Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport in Kentucky. All flights in and out of the airport have been suspended as police and emergency services are attending the scene. Kentucky governor Andy Beshear has described the accident as "catastrophic" and is urging residents to obey any shelter-in-place orders.
Eight people have been killed and numerous others injured after a passenger train collided with a goods train in Chhattisgarh. The accident occurred in the afternoon, halting train services on the route and prompting the cancellation or diversion of multiple trains. Emergency teams have been dispatched to the scene, with rescue operations ongoing and medical treatment being provided to the injured passengers. Helpline numbers have been issued for convenience, and the railway authorities have assured that all efforts are being made to assist those affected by the tragedy.
Today, 5 November 2025, marks the 556th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism. As we celebrate this sacred and highly revered festival, let us remember and spread the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, which promote compassion, humility, and love for all. To commemorate this occasion, indianexpress.com has compiled heartfelt wishes and messages to share with friends and family, wishing everyone endless happiness, peace, and prosperity.
During the Emerging Science Technology and Innovation Conclave, PM Modi announced the launch of the Rs 1 lakh crore Research, Development and Innovation Fund. This fund, under the Department of Science and Technology, aims to encourage private sector investments in R&D to drive India's vision of becoming an innovation-driven nation. With this fund, India's R&D expenditure has doubled in the last decade and the country now has the world's third-largest startup ecosystem. PM Modi also highlighted how India's domestic capability has accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic due to its successful digital public infrastructure.
A stampede at the Kasibugga Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Andhra Pradesh has left 10 dead and two injured. The temple had recently reopened and was experiencing high footfall due to a festival. Home Minister Vangalapudi Anitha has ordered a thorough investigation into the causes of the tragedy and has promised strict measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
India and the United States have strengthened their already strong ties by signing a 10-year framework for their major defense partnership. The agreement, signed during a bilateral meeting between the two countries' defense ministers, emphasizes the importance of this partnership in maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific region. This marks a significant step in solidifying the bond between India and the US in the defense sector.