Greenland may become independent if its residents want, but it won't become a U.S. state, Denmark's foreign minister said after U.S. President-elect Donald Trump refused to rule out force to take control of the Arctic island.

Greenland’s Prime Minister has called for the country’s independence to break free from the "shackles" of Danish colonialism. The nation, home to 60,000 people, was a Danish colony until 1979, when it gained its own government.

Greenland’s prime minister has reiterated his call for independence from Denmark after Donald Trump suggested the US could acquire the Arctic territory.

Greenland's prime minister gave a speech telling Denmark to gain more independence as Trump called for the U.S. to purchase the island.

Greenland's Prime Minister Mute Egede emphasised his desire to pursue independence from Denmark, its former colonial ruler, during his New Year speech, marking a significant change in the rhetoric surrounding the Arctic island's future.

Greenland takes action after Trump hints at ‘re-ownership’ of the island Greenland is seeking independence from Denmark after President-elect Donald Trump suggested the 're-ownership' of the island is essential for national security purposes.

Greenland PM Múte Egede has called for independence from Denmark in the wake of Donald Trump advocating for U.S." "ownership" of the island.

He has mentioned the possibility of US intervention in Mexico and has suggested the annexation of territories such as Greenland and even Canada.