During a brief visit to Greenland, US Vice President JD Vance criticised Denmark for what he described as a lack of investment in the Arctic territory. Denmark has governed Greenland for more than 300 years.
US Vice President’s criticism of Denmark
Speaking at the Pituffik Space Base, where he addressed US troops, Vance reaffirmed former President Donald Trump’s interest in bringing Greenland under American control. However, he assured locals that the US would not use military force to take the territory. Instead, he encouraged Greenlanders to reconsider their ties with Denmark.
“Our message to Denmark is simple: You have not served the people of Greenland well,” Vance stated. “There has been insufficient investment in both the welfare of Greenlanders and in the security of this remarkable and resource-rich land. That must change.”
Backlash and Greenlanders opposition
The visit was initially described by Vance’s wife, Usha, as a “cultural tour.” However, it was cut back after backlash from Greenlanders and Danes, who claimed they were not consulted about the original plans. The Vances spent only a few hours on the island, and their visit sparked widespread criticism on social media. Many questioned their presence.
A recent poll suggested that most Greenlanders oppose becoming part of the United States.
During his speech, Vance also criticised other nations for showing interest in Greenland’s trade routes and mineral resources. He urged Greenlanders to consider “self-determination” and downplayed Trump’s past remarks about acquiring the territory by force.
“We believe the people of Greenland are pragmatic and capable,” Vance said. “If we negotiate in the style of Donald Trump, we can strike a deal that ensures the security of both Greenland and the United States.”
“We hope they choose to partner with America, as we are the only nation that will respect both their sovereignty and security,” he added. He emphasised that Greenland’s security is closely tied to that of the US.
Response from Danish and Greenlandic leaders
Shortly after Vance’s arrival, Trump echoed similar sentiments, referencing Russia and China’s growing interest in Greenland.
“We need Greenland. It’s not a matter of whether we can do without it—we simply can’t,” Trump told reporters at the White House.
When asked about Trump’s comments, Vance reiterated the need for a stronger focus on the island’s security. “We cannot afford to overlook this territory, nor can we ignore the President’s concerns,” he said. He insisted that Greenland would be more secure under American protection than under Denmark’s rule since 1721.
Vance’s remarks faced strong opposition from Danish leaders. Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen dismissed his claims, stating in an interview with the BBC that his comments were inaccurate. She pointed out Denmark’s long-standing alliance with the United States.
She also noted that Denmark had significantly increased its defence spending in Greenland. More investments are planned, including new Arctic patrol vessels, long-range drones, satellite capabilities, and enhanced surveillance.
Denmark’s King Frederik also rejected the idea of US involvement in Greenland’s affairs.
Meanwhile, Greenland’s newly elected Prime Minister, Jens-Frederik Nielsen, criticised the visit. He called it “disrespectful” to the island’s people.
