This documentary explores the island’s history and examines its strategic importance in the 21st century.

Greenland has long been more than just a barometer of climate change. But since Donald Trump’s return to the White House, the world’s largest island - autonomous, yet part of Denmark-- has become a point of contention among the major powers.

Why? As the ice sheets melt, the Arctic Ocean is opening up to shipping and resource extraction. Greenland is thus becoming a key strategic region between North America, Europe and Russia. Its vast mineral resources - ranging from oil and gas to gold and rare earths, which are indispensable for the energy transition and the defense industry - are turning the island into a new El Dorado. Mining companies and world powers alike are competing for a share.

Since Donald Trump’s re-election, the debate has become increasingly heated. In 2019, the US President publicly suggested that Greenland could be purchased by the US and accused Denmark of failing to protect the island adequately against global threats. But what lies behind these demands? How is Europe responding to American power politics? And what role can Greenland itself play in this geopolitical power struggle - caught between economic opportunities, environmental risks and the desire for sovereignty?
    
The documentary blends historical context with contemporary analysis: it shows why Greenland plays a key role in the global order today, what interests are at stake, and how the people of the island wish to shape their future.

Broadcasting Hours:

DW English

SAT 13.06.2026 – 11:03 UTC
SAT 13.06.2026 – 22:03 UTC
SUN 14.06.2026 – 05:03 UTC

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