Ukalek Sletemark, a biathlete from Greenland, criticized former President Trump for suggesting the purchase of Greenland, stating that people and nations cannot be commodified.
Ukalek Sletemark, a 24-year-old biathlete from Greenland competing for Denmark, publicly expressed his confusion over Donald Trump's comments regarding the acquisition of Greenland. Sletemark articulated that a nation and its people cannot simply be bought, reinforcing a sense of national pride amidst Trump's controversial statements about the territory's strategic value in relation to geopolitical interests.
Sletemark made these comments after a biathlon competition in Antholz, Italy, where he participated in the 2026 Winter Olympics alongside his younger brother, Sandre. He emphasized the importance of defending Greenland and ensuring that the world recognizes its location and the presence of its people. This comment comes in the backdrop of international tension arising from Trump's earlier intentions to purchase Greenland, which stirred discussions about territorial integrity and national sovereignty.
He also pointed out the solidarity felt among Greenlanders in light of these discussions, particularly feeling supported by Denmark. Although they represent Greenland, Sletemark and his brother compete under the Danish banner due to the International Olympic Committee’s recognition policies. Nonetheless, they wear uniforms showcasing symbols of their Inuit heritage and Greenlandic identity, comprising the majority of the island's population, which is approximately 56,000.
