Denmark Critiques US Vice President JD Vance Over Greenland Comments

Copenhagen - Denmark's Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen expressed strong disapproval of the comments made by US Vice President JD Vance regarding Denmark's involvement in Greenland. During Vance's recent visit to the strategically significant territory, he criticized Copenhagen for what he described as "underinvestment" in Greenland, claims that sparked a diplomatic reaction from Danish officials.

"We are open to criticisms, but let me be completely honest, we do not appreciate the tone in which it's being delivered," Rasmussen stated on social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter). He emphasized the importance of maintaining respectful communication among allies, noting that Denmark views the United States as a close partner.

Vance's remarks occurred during a visit to the Pituffik Space Base, a key American military installation in Greenland. "Our message to Denmark is very simple: You have not done a good job by the people of Greenland," Vance remarked at a press conference. He added, "You have under-invested in the people of Greenland and you have under-invested in the security architecture of this incredible, beautiful landmass."

Tensions Around US Interest in Greenland

The backdrop of Vance's visit is the ongoing interest of former President Donald Trump in Greenland, a territory rich in natural resources and strategically located. Trump has previously suggested the idea of acquiring Greenland, a notion that has been met with denial from both Greenlandic leaders and the Danish government.

In a statement made at the White House, Trump reinforced the significance of Greenland for US national security, stating, "We are not talking about peace for the United States. We are talking about world peace. We are talking about international security." Although Vance indicated that the US administration does not foresee the need for forceful actions concerning Greenland, the implications of such comments have raised concerns among Danish and Greenlandic officials.

Danish Leadership Responds

Denmark's Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen also weighed in, asserting that the Vice President’s comments were not representative of the strong relationship and history of cooperation between Denmark and the US. She highlighted Denmark's past military collaborations with the United States in places like Iraq and Afghanistan, asserting, "For many years, we have stood by the Americans in very difficult situations."

Frederiksen characterized the US decision to conduct a visit to the Arctic territory without a prior invitation as "unacceptable pressure" on Denmark and Greenland. A recent poll indicated that a majority of Greenlanders oppose US annexation, reflecting the sentiment that they desire autonomy over their future.

Calls for Unity in Greenland

In the midst of these international tensions, Greenland has recently formed a new broad coalition government following elections. The incoming Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen emphasized the need for unity among local political parties in the face of external pressures. "It is very important that we put aside our disagreements and differences ... because only in this way will we be able to cope with the heavy pressure we are exposed to from outside," he stated.

As discussions about Greenland’s future continue, both Denmark and Greenland affirm their commitment to maintaining their sovereignty and independence in the face of outside interests.