Ignored for most of its existence, the huge ice-bound island has been thrust into a geopolitical maelstrom. It’s trying to make the most of it.The New York Times reports that in the small town of Ilulissat, Greenland, Mayor Palle Jeremiassen is facing a busy day. As he works in a two-story building above the harbor, where fishermen are busy butchering seals and bringing in their catch, he is also dealing with the effects of climate change.
Strong winds have destroyed the path to the best ice-fishing spot, causing frustration among the fishermen who rely on this activity for their livelihood. In another nearby settlement, the ice is too thin to cross, a worrying sign of climate change. Mayor Jeremiassen must quickly organize emergency shipments by helicopter to ensure that the villagers have enough food.
In this remote part of Greenland, ice is a way of life. The landscape is covered in snow and glittering ice crystals, and towering sapphire icebergs dot the semi-frozen sea. But amidst all of this, there is a bigger concern occupying the minds of the mayor and the people of Greenland: President Trump’s recent announcement that the United States will take over Greenland.
Greenland, which was once colonized by Denmark, still relies on the country for many of its affairs. But with Trump’s statement and his refusal to rule out using force to take control of the island, the people of Greenland are left wondering what will happen to their way of life.
Mayor Jeremiassen expresses his concern, saying, “What can we do when he comes? We will not be Americans. We don’t want to be Europeans. We want to be Greenlandic.” The future of Greenland remains uncertain as the world watches to see how this situation will unfold.
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