Danish official responds to Vance’s Greenland comments

Denmark has hit back at the Trump administration’s recent comments regarding Greenland, emphasizing that “this is not how you speak to your close allies.” Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen expressed his concerns in a recorded video following Vice President JD Vance’s visit to an American military base in Greenland, where he criticized Denmark for its handling of the region.

Rasmussen stated, “Much is being said these days. Many accusations and many allegations have been made. And of course we are open to criticism. But let me be completely honest: we do not appreciate the tone in which it is being delivered. This is not how you speak to your close allies. And I still consider Denmark and the United States to be close allies.”

The Trump administration has been vocal about Denmark’s supposed failure to protect Greenland from Russian and Chinese aggression. Vice President Vance, during his visit to the Pituffik Space Base in northwest Greenland, remarked that “Denmark hasn’t done a good job at keeping Greenland safe.”

“Our message to Denmark is very simple: You have not done a good job by the people of Greenland,” Vance added. “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.”

President Trump has expressed interest in acquiring Greenland from Denmark in his second administration. Rasmussen acknowledged the need for the U.S. to have a stronger military presence in Greenland and stressed that more can be done within the existing defense agreement between the two countries.

“We respect the need for a more significant U.S. military presence in Greenland, and we believe that much more can be done within the framework of the 1951 defense agreement with the U.S. Let us make use of that and let us do it together,” Rasmussen stated.

Rasmussen also highlighted Denmark’s recent investments in Arctic security, including a billion-dollar commitment to enhance drone, ship, and personnel presence in the region. He reiterated that Greenland is a part of NATO and encouraged all allies to play a greater role in the Arctic, while Denmark is committed to fulfilling its responsibilities.

The foreign minister emphasized the evolving nature of the Arctic region, stating that the status quo is no longer an option. He called for proactive measures to address new challenges and opportunities in the area.

In conclusion, Denmark reaffirmed its commitment to working with the U.S. and other allies to ensure the security and stability of Greenland and the Arctic region as a whole. The diplomatic exchange between Denmark and the Trump administration underscores the complexities of international relations and the importance of maintaining strong alliances in an ever-changing world.