Opposition wins election in Greenland
Greenland is on track for a change of government: the opposition centre-right Demokraatit party came first in the parliamentary elections with 30 percent of the vote and is now likely to lead a coalition government. The Naleraq Party, which is pushing for independence as soon as possible, made significant gains, securing 24.5 percent. The parties of the left-wing coalition which is currently in power trailed behind in third and fourth place.
Voters don't want a chaotic rush for independence
It's clear that the Greenlanders don't want to rush things, Corriere della Sera comments:
“Nielsen's Demokraatit called for patience during the campaign, arguing that the country must achieve full economic autonomy before a referendum on independence from Denmark can be held. ... The success of the Democrats, who tripled their share of the vote, is a clear 'no thanks' to Donald Trump and an invitation to engage in dialogue with Denmark, which still retains control over the country's defence, foreign policy and monetary policy and provides subsidies of more than 540 million euros a year - almost half of Greenland's national budget. Nielsen said: 'We are not for sale. ... We want to build our country ourselves. But without doing it in a rush.”
Denmark must deliver now that Trump has been rebuffed
Berlingske now sees Copenhagen as having a duty towards the Greenlanders:
“Two clear conclusions can be drawn: Trump's attempts at intimidation have largely been rejected and there is a clear majority in favour of a slower path to independence. ... We have a common interest in ensuring that Greenland does not fall prey to a new, brazen American imperialism. Denmark must make clear that Greenland can achieve far more respect and equality in a relationship with Denmark than with the United States.”
Europe as an alternative to US hegemony
After the election, Der Nordschleswiger sees an opportunity for European businesses to gain a foothold in Greenland:
“For Europe, too, the 'snowslide victory' in Nuuk could mean a new beginning for relations with Greenland (or rather the beginning, because so far relations have been tenuous to say the least). Demokraatit wants to strengthen the economy. And all parties want to expand Greenland's relations with countries other than Denmark. [Demokraatit leader] Jens-Frederik Nielsen is highly critical of Donald Trump's ambitions regarding Greenland - and has made this abundantly clear. This, too, offers opportunities for Denmark - and Europe.”