As tensions escalate between Greenland and the United States following President Trump’s statements about acquiring the territory, the Greenland government has taken a pragmatic approach to ensuring the safety and self-sufficiency of its citizens. In an 11-page manual released on the same day that Trump ruled out a military takeover, Greenland has provided “practical and simple advice” for households on how to prepare for potential crises.
The manual encourages Greenlanders to stock up on essential supplies, including firearms, ammunition, and fishing equipment, as hunting can be a vital source of food in times of emergency. Households are advised to ensure they have access to at least three litres of water per person per day, as well as a supply of dried meat, fish, and canned goods.
According to the government, the preparedness advice was developed last year in response to a series of long-term and short-term power outages, and is not a direct expression of anticipation of a crisis. However, the manual’s release on the same day as Trump’s comments has understandably heightened the sense of uncertainty among Greenlanders.
Nuuk residents have expressed a lack of trust in the US President and a growing cloud of worry about their future. Julie Rademacher, the chair of Uagut (the National Organisation for Greenlanders in Denmark), stated that Greenlanders have been “sleeping with their boots on” since Trump announced his intentions to acquire the territory. She added, “They have to find their weapons, their rifles. They have to be ready to take care of themselves for five days. This is a new era now, and we need to be ready.”
The government’s emphasis on self-sufficiency and preparedness is a pragmatic response to the current geopolitical climate. By providing clear guidance and encouraging Greenlanders to take practical steps to ensure their own resilience, the authorities aim to empower the population and maintain stability in the face of potential challenges.
