Vice President J.D. Vance slammed Danish leaders during a visit to Greenland, accusing them of underinvestment and highlighting U.S. national security interests in the Arctic.
By yourNEWS Media Newsroom
Vice President J.D. Vance delivered pointed criticism of Denmark’s stewardship of Greenland during a visit to the autonomous territory on Friday, accusing the Danish government of failing to adequately support both the people and security infrastructure of the strategically vital Arctic region.
“Our message to Denmark is very simple,” Vance said during remarks at Pituffik Space Base. “You have not done a good job by the people of Greenland. You have underinvested in the people of Greenland, and you have underinvested in the security architecture of this incredible, beautiful landmass filled with incredible people. That has to change.”
WATCH:
Vance’s comments reinforce President Donald Trump’s long-standing position that Greenland holds critical importance to U.S. and global security. Speaking separately from the White House, Trump reiterated his belief that Greenland’s role in the international order is non-negotiable. “We need Greenland, very importantly, for international security,” Trump said, adding, “It’s not a question of do you think we can do without it. We can’t… Greenland is very important for the peace of the world.”
The vice president traveled with second lady Usha Vance, National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, Energy Secretary Chris Wright, and Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah), where the delegation engaged with U.S. troops and received security briefings. Usha Vance had planned to undertake her first solo international visit during the trip, but the Danish government reportedly cancelled her itinerary, calling her presence “unacceptable pressure” on Greenlandic autonomy.
Vance emphasized that the U.S. supports the self-determination of the Greenlandic people and drew a clear distinction between them and Denmark’s political leadership. “Our argument really is with the leadership of Denmark,” Vance said. “That simply must change.”
Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen responded to the vice president’s remarks in an interview with Berlingske, stating that while he takes the critique seriously, he found the tone “a bit inappropriate” and suggested that the U.S. should also reflect on its own role. “If the U.S. wants to do more in the Arctic, Denmark and Greenland would be happy to assist,” Rasmussen added, noting that Denmark recognizes the need for increased investment in the region.
When asked about expanding U.S. military presence in Greenland, Vance clarified that there were no immediate plans to enlarge operations beyond Pituffik Space Base but acknowledged the need for broader investments in Arctic infrastructure. “There are general objectives that will certainly require us investing more resources… icebreakers, naval ships, greater presence in Greenland,” Vance said. “Russia and China are expanding their security footprints. The United States must act in our interest—ensuring Greenland is safe.”
Vance’s remarks mark the most forceful U.S. rebuke of Danish policy toward Greenland in recent years, underscoring growing geopolitical competition in the Arctic and the Trump administration’s determination to strengthen American influence in the region.
Leave a Comment