Hands Off Greenland Protests Draw Thousands in Denmark

Mass protests broke out across Denmark and Greenland as demonstrators rejected renewed US threats to take control of the Arctic island. The rallies highlight growing concern over sovereignty, democracy, and rising transatlantic tensions.

Dateline: Copenhagen, Denmark | January 18, 2026

What Happened

Thousands of people poured into streets across Denmark on Saturday as Hands Off Greenland protests gained momentum. Demonstrators rallied against former US President Donald Trump’s repeated statements about taking control of Greenland.

In Copenhagen, crowds gathered outside City Hall, waving Danish and Greenlandic flags. Protesters chanted “Kalaallit Nunaat,” the Greenlandic name for the Arctic island, turning the square into a sea of red and white.

The demonstrations reflected growing unease over Trump’s renewed push to acquire Greenland. Many participants described the issue as a matter of democracy, identity, and international law.

Protest leaders said the rallies aimed to send a clear message to Washington. Greenland is not for sale.

Where It Happened

The largest Hands Off Greenland protests took place in Copenhagen, but rallies spread far beyond the capital.

Demonstrations were also reported in Aarhus, Aalborg, and Odense, drawing supporters from across Denmark. In Greenland itself, residents gathered in Nuuk, the island’s capital, despite its small population.

In Nuuk, where only around 20,000 people live, turnout exceeded expectations. Residents said the strong participation showed how deeply the issue resonates.

Organisers described the protests as a rare moment of unity between Danes and Greenlanders. Both communities stood together in opposition to foreign control.

Official Confirmation

Julie Rademacher, chair of Uagut, an organisation representing Greenlanders in Denmark, addressed the Copenhagen rally. She thanked supporters and warned that the situation demands global attention.

“We are sending a message to the world,” she said. “You all must wake up.”

Rademacher argued that Greenlanders have been placed on the front line of a broader struggle. She said the issue goes beyond geopolitics and touches human rights and democratic values.

The protests followed Trump’s announcement that the US would impose 10 percent tariffs on European allies opposing American control of Greenland. Those tariffs are set to begin on February 1.

Trump said the rate would rise to 25 percent on June 1 unless negotiations lead to a US purchase of Greenland.

Denmark and Greenland have both rejected the idea.

Why It Matters

The Hands Off Greenland protests highlight growing anxiety over sovereignty in an era of renewed great-power competition.

Greenland holds strategic importance due to its Arctic location and natural resources. Trump has argued that US control is necessary for national and global security.

Critics say the approach undermines international norms and pressures smaller nations. They warn that linking trade penalties to territorial demands sets a dangerous precedent.

Public opinion in Greenland strongly opposes joining the United States. A recent poll shows 85 percent of Greenlanders reject the idea, while only 6 percent support it.

The protests also come amid rising diplomatic strain between Washington and Europe. Trump’s tariff threats have alarmed NATO allies and risk escalating economic retaliation.

For many demonstrators, the issue reflects a broader fear. They see powerful nations testing the limits of international cooperation.

What Happens Next

Diplomatic efforts appear stalled.

Earlier this week, the foreign ministers of Denmark and Greenland met US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington. After the meeting, both said they failed to change the American position.

Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen told reporters that Trump remains determined. He described the approach as an attempt to impose control rather than negotiate partnership.

As tariff deadlines approach, European governments may consider countermeasures. Analysts warn that a trade dispute could deepen divisions within NATO.

Meanwhile, protest organisers say demonstrations will continue. Groups in Denmark and Greenland are planning further rallies and public events.

They aim to keep international attention focused on Greenland’s right to self-determination.

Conclusion

The surge in Hands Off Greenland protests marks a critical moment in the debate over sovereignty, power, and global order.

By bringing thousands into the streets, demonstrators have shown that the issue extends far beyond diplomacy. It has become a public stand for democratic principles and national identity.

As Trump’s threats and tariff plans loom, Denmark and Greenland face growing pressure. For now, protesters insist on one message above all others: Greenland’s future belongs to its people.

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