In brief
Jeffrey Gettleman takes us along on his icy trek, capturing the spirit of Greenland and its people's perspective on international affairs.
In mid-January, I found myself in Greenland, a strikingly beautiful yet icy realm, on an adventure that felt pulled from the pages of a storybook. The winds were relentless, biting through every protective layer of clothing as I sped towards an ice fjord, gripping tightly to a snowmobile while the temperature hovered around five degrees Fahrenheit. It was 11 a.m., but the sky remained draped in darkness, a quintessential aspect of life in the Arctic Circle during winter months.Accompanied by a friendly Greenlandic family, I joined them on their way to a favored ice fishing location, part of my nearly two-week exploration of the island. Recently in the spotlight due to President Trump's intriguing interest in acquiring Greenland for its vastness, strategic location, and mineral wealth, I felt compelled to hear firsthand the sentiments of those living there.My journey began in Nuuk, Greenland's capital, where I immersed myself in conversations with local officials and everyday citizens. To no one's surprise, the overwhelming response was one of discontent towards Trump's comments. The thought of a U.S. takeover stirred unease among the locals, accentuating their deep connection to the land.A particularly striking moment unfolded after a long reporting day when I decided to unwind with a jog through Nuuk. The streets were glazed in ice and snow, creating an enchanting winter scene. Mid-run, I crossed paths with a group of local runners and, in my innocence, attempted to blend in. However, one astute Danish man in the pack turned to me, curiosity etched on his face, asking, “Who are you?”Such interactions encapsulated the warmth and inquisitiveness of Greenlandic culture amidst the cold, leaving me with a treasure trove of experiences as I continued my reporting journey.
