Latvian Poll Asks: Should the US Acquire Greenland from Denmark?
A Latvian news outlet has sparked controversy with an unusual online poll. The survey asked readers whether Greenland should become part of the United States. The question follows repeated claims by former US President Trump about acquiring the Danish territory for strategic reasons.
Critics argue the poll interferes in Denmark’s internal affairs. Others see it as a misstep for Latvia’s reputation as a mature democracy.
The survey appeared on the website of Neatkarg, a well-known Latvian publication. It posed the question: ‘Should Greenland become part of the United States?’ Readers could choose from four responses: ‘What nonsense! Get your hands off Greenland!’, ‘Definitely! This will strengthen peace on the planet.’, ‘Greenland should become fully independent.’, or ‘There is no opinion.’
The poll emerged in early 2026, a time of rising geopolitical tensions. Trump had repeatedly suggested the US should annex or purchase Greenland from Denmark. His arguments centred on security concerns, particularly countering Russian and Chinese influence. Meanwhile, US lawmakers and diplomats in Washington had already begun informal discussions on the topic. Denmark’s government has not publicly addressed the Latvian survey. However, analysts describe the move as an awkward and unnecessary intrusion into Danish sovereignty. Some Latvian commentators have called the poll a self-inflicted embarrassment for a country that prides itself on democratic values.
The survey remains online, though its impact is unclear. Denmark maintains full authority over Greenland, an autonomous territory within its realm. The episode highlights how even informal media polls can strain international relations when touching on sensitive territorial issues.
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