Tensions over Greenland have flared once again, with a Danish official delivering a blunt message to President Donald Trump amid his renewed push to acquire the territory. During a session at the European Parliament, Anders Vistisen, a member of the Danish People’s Party, rejected Trump’s proposition in no uncertain terms, calling it absurd and, in a rare display of political profanity, told the U.S. president to “f*** off.”
Vistisen emphasized Greenland’s deep-rooted connection to Denmark, stating, “Greenland has been part of the Danish kingdom for 800 years. It is an integral part of our country and not for sale.”
His fiery remarks sparked controversy, with European Parliament Vice President Nicolae Ștefănuță cautioning against the use of offensive language, even in heated debates. Nevertheless, the exchange quickly gained traction on social media, with Vistisen’s comments making waves on platforms like X (formerly Twitter).
“Greenland… is not for sale. Let me put it in words you might understand: Mister Trump, fuck off.”
Danish politician Anders Vistisen send message to donald trump regarding controlling/buying Greenland. pic.twitter.com/r3nrklUfSl
— ADAM XL (@ADAMXOOOX) January 22, 2025
Trump, who has long been vocal about his interest in Greenland, reiterated his belief that U.S. ownership is “essential for international security.” He suggested that the people of Greenland would prefer being under U.S. governance, claiming they were dissatisfied with Denmark’s stewardship.
Trump’s ambitions date back to his first term, during which he floated the idea of buying the island but faced swift rejections from both Denmark and Greenland. His 2019 attempt even led to a canceled visit to Copenhagen after Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen dismissed the notion as “absurd.”
Greenland, a strategically significant territory in the Arctic, has been the focus of geopolitical attention due to its location and resources. While Trump frames his pursuit of Greenland as a matter of security and economic strategy, Greenland’s leadership has remained firm in its opposition.
Prime Minister Mute Egede has not only rejected U.S. ownership outright but has also voiced aspirations for Greenlandic independence, aiming to shed its colonial ties to Denmark entirely.
Despite Trump’s claims that acquiring Greenland would benefit its people and enhance global security, the proposal has drawn widespread criticism as a reflection of outdated imperialist thinking. The Danish government, backed by Greenlandic leaders, has repeatedly stressed that the island is not—and will never be—for sale.