U.S. Vice President Criticizes Denmark Amid Renewed Interest in Greenland
U.S. Vice President JD Vance has strongly emphasized Greenland’s strategic value, particularly in terms of national security. “It’s really important to our national security.” He explained that sea routes surrounding Greenland are increasingly being used by Russia and China, adding, “The Russians and Chinese use sea lanes that encircle Greenland.”
Criticism of Denmark’s Role
Vance did not hold back in criticizing Denmark’s governance over Greenland. “The Danish government is not doing its job and not being a good ally.” He expressed frustration that Denmark was hindering U.S. access to a region critical for defense and surveillance operations. The Vice President suggested a bold course of action, hinting at President Donald Trump’s earlier ambitions to assert stronger U.S. control over Greenland: “If that means that we need to take more territorial interest in Greenland, that is what President Trump is going to do because he doesn’t care what the Europeans scream at us; he cares about putting the interests of American citizens first.”
Greenland’s Abundant Resources and U.S. Interest
Calling Greenland “an incredibly bountiful country,” Vance stressed its natural wealth and untapped potential. The statement echoed previous remarks made by Trump, who had called Greenland’s control “an absolute necessity,” indicating a revived push from the current administration to explore territorial ambitions in the Arctic.
Second Lady’s Visit to Strengthen Ties
Furthering U.S. engagement with Greenland, Second Lady Usha Vance and her son are set to visit the island to “visit historical sites, learn about Greenlandic heritage, and attend the Avannaata Qimussersu, Greenland’s national dogsled race.” The visit aims to signal diplomatic interest and establish cultural ties amid rising political tensions.
Greenland Pushes Back Against Aggressive Posture
However, the U.S. administration’s approach has not been welcomed by Greenland’s leadership. Prime Minister Mute B. Egede described the current U.S. strategy as “highly aggressive,” raising concerns about sovereignty and external pressure.
While Vance implied that many Greenlanders are unhappy with Denmark’s oversight, public sentiment tells a different story. Surveys indicate that “85 percent of Greenlanders opposed the idea of becoming a U.S. territory,” highlighting a sharp contrast between U.S. perceptions and Greenlandic public opinion.
The developments underline the renewed geopolitical focus on the Arctic, where strategic control and natural resources are prompting new debates about sovereignty, influence, and international alliances.
