05.01.2026 21:00
World-renowned Icelandic artist Björk made a historic call to Greenland, which is under the threat of annexation by U.S. President Donald Trump. Reminding of the "birth control scandals" in Denmark's colonial past, the artist urged Greenlanders not to "escape from one tyrant only to fall into the hands of another," calling for independence.
The implications of U.S. President Donald Trump's intention to annex Greenland on the grounds of "national security" and to "take it by force if necessary" have sparked a major diplomatic crisis in Northern Europe. The most notable response to this tension came from Icelandic singer Björk. Addressing the people of Greenland through her social media account, the artist emphasized that the time for independence has come, drawing attention to the region's dark colonial past.
"4,500 GIRLS HAVE BEEN STRIPPED OF THEIR MOTHERHOOD"
Björk referred to Denmark's "Spiral Campaign," which was implemented against Greenlandic women between 1966 and 1970, in her statement. Reminding that over 4,500 indigenous women, including 12-year-old girls, were fitted with birth control devices without their consent, the artist highlighted that this tragedy still leaves thousands of women childless today.
"DON'T RISE FROM THE ASHES ONLY TO FALL INTO THE FIRE"
Using the Icelandic proverb "Úr öskunni í eldinn" (Don't rise from the ashes only to fall into the fire) as an example, Björk pointed out that Iceland preserved its identity after separating from Denmark in 1944, and described Trump's annexation plans as "an unimaginable cruelty." She stated that Greenland should not escape from Danish colonialism only to fall into the hands of another colonial power.
"DECLARE YOUR INDEPENDENCE" CALL
Björk urged, "Colonialism has repeatedly sent a shiver of fear down my spine. Dear Greenlanders: Declare your independence to protect your language and identity."
TRUMP'S PERSISTENCE CONTINUES
The Trump administration claims that the number of Russian and Chinese ships around Greenland has increased, arguing that the island is "an indispensable fortress" for the U.S. The governments of Denmark and Greenland continue to send the message "we are not for sale" by firmly rejecting the annexation demands.