The incident occurred on 27-28/1 when comedian Maxi Schafroth attempted to hoist a US flag on a flagpole near the cultural center in Nuuk, Greenland's capital. He was filming "Extra 3," a satirical show for German broadcaster NDR. Many passersby protested his actions.

Eyewitnesses reported Schafroth introduced himself as a "US official" before leaving, met with local disapproval.

Greenland police later arrived and issued a fine to the film crew. Greenland authorities are currently investigating the matter.

Comedian Maxi Schafroth attempting to raise a US flag in front of the Nuuk cultural center on 28/1. Photo: AFP

Avaaraq Olsen, head of the Kommuneqarfik Sermersooq district, expressed her outrage regarding the incident.

"Hoisting a flag at our capital's cultural center, a flag representing a military superpower that has alluded to using force against Greenland for weeks, is not a joke. This act is not funny; it is harmful," she stated.

Olsen suggested that amplifying public fear for content, increasing views, and entertaining others "exacerbates the suffering of a vulnerable segment of the population."

The Greenland official advised: "Stop before filming, think carefully before staging something you deem 'funny'. Consider what information your next joke will convey to the world, or if it will simply make children cry, making families feel unsafe in their own homeland."

NDR stated the program aimed to satirize and critique controversial US actions and declarations regarding Greenland, emphasizing it "did not intend to satirize Greenlanders."

"The editorial team apologizes to the people of Greenland for creating a negative impression," NDR said, explaining that "Extra 3" has been broadcast for many years and is a popular program in Germany.

In recent times, President Trump has repeatedly expressed his desire to acquire Greenland, despite opposition from Denmark and European nations. Trump asserted that if the US did not control the island, Russia or China would.

The US's ambition to control Greenland is weakening transatlantic relations and compelling European countries to accelerate efforts to reduce their reliance on Washington, even after Trump withdrew tariff threats and dismissed the possibility of using force to control the island.

Hong Hanh (according to DW)