U.S. Vice President JD Vance has indicated that the United States must secure control of Greenland to mitigate threats from China and Russia. During a visit to the Pituffik military base in Greenland, he criticized Denmark for its handling of the Arctic territory, stating that it has “not done a good job” in terms of investment and security for the people of Greenland.
Vance’s remarks come amid increasingly tense relations between the U.S., Greenland, and Denmark. Speaking alongside U.S. troops and high-ranking officials, including national security adviser Mike Waltz, Vance stated, “Our message to Denmark is very simple: you have underinvested in the people of Greenland and in the security of this beautiful landmass.” He emphasized the necessity for Greenland to come under the “United States’s security umbrella,” claiming that the territory is inadequately protected from aggressive actions by Russia and China.
Following Vance’s arrival, he expressed his strong interest in Arctic security, noting that it would become an even more significant issue in the coming decades. The current discourse around Greenland has intensified, especially since Trump expressed a strong desire for U.S. ownership of the island, describing it as essential for national and international security.
Recent reports indicate that during Vance’s visit, the Greenlandic government established a four-party coalition aimed at demonstrating national unity. This coalition includes statements affirming that “Greenland belongs to us” and emphasizes the importance of self-determination and managing partnerships independently.
In a response to Vance’s visit, Greenland’s new Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen remarked that the U.S. had shown a lack of respect for Greenland, highlighting the need for mutual respect in relations between allies. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen echoed support for the new government while calling for collaboration during challenging times.
Comments from both leaders underline a pivotal moment for Greenland as it navigates its identity and autonomy amid external pressures and U.S. ambitions. As focus shifts to economic cooperation and security concerns, it remains to be seen how these developments will impact the future of U.S.-Greenland relations.
