Greenland's pro-business opposition party wins election dominated by Trump
What's the story
Greenland's Demokraatit party has won the parliamentary elections.
The elections attracted international spotlight after US President Donald Trump proposed taking control of the territory. It also raised concerns over its future security amid the US-China-Russia competition for Arctic influence.
All major political parties in this oil-and-gas-rich Danish autonomous region have a common goal: independence from Denmark.
Independence strategy
Demokraatit's approach to independence
The pro-business opposition Demokraatit party, which favors a slow approach to independence from Denmark, got 30.4% of the votes in the election with more than 90% of ballots counted.
The former ruling democratic socialist party, Inuit Ataqatigiit, sees independence as a long-term project that would require years of negotiations with Denmark and further economic development.
Its main rival, Naleraq, which campaigned for quicker severance from Denmark and a defense deal with the US, lagged behind in the polls.
Historical context
Denmark's historical ties and Greenland's aspirations
Denmark ruled Greenland as a colony until 1953, when the island received wider self-governing powers.
In 2009, it received more powers concerning minerals, policing, and courts of law.
However, Denmark continues to oversee security and defense, as well as foreign and monetary policy.
Despite such historical ties with Denmark, opinion polls show most Greenlanders favor independence and aren't keen on becoming Americans despite Trump's interest in taking control of the territory.
Economic challenges
Greenland's economy and environmental concerns
Greenland, home to 56,000 people, elects its 31 parliamentary members every four years.
In December, Trump stated that possessing Greenland was a "necessity" for US security.
In February, Republican Congressman Earl "Buddy" Carter introduced a bill that would authorize the president to enter into discussions with the government of Denmark to purchase or otherwise acquire Greenland.