Vance slams Denmark in push to appeal to Greenland partnership
Denmark found itself in the crosshairs of President Donald Trump on Friday, with his administration arguing that Copenhagen has failed to protect Greenland from Russian and Chinese aggression. Speaking to American soldiers at the Pituffik Space Base in northwest Greenland, Vice President Vance criticized Denmark for not doing enough to ensure the safety of the territory.
“We believe that Greenland will choose to become independent of Denmark through self-determination,” Vance stated, taking a more diplomatic approach than Trump’s previous statements. “And then we will engage in conversations with the people of Greenland from there.”
The visit to Greenland was met with criticism from officials in both Greenland and Denmark, as the latter controls foreign and defense policy for the semi-autonomous territory. Despite resistance within Greenland to becoming part of the U.S., Trump has signaled his ambition to acquire the territory.
Vance emphasized that Russia and China have been encroaching on Greenland without proper protection from Denmark. As an autonomous nation, Greenland does not have its own military and would need to apply for NATO membership if it were to become independent from Denmark.
“The expansion of Russian and Chinese security interests in the region poses a threat to Greenland’s security,” Vance explained. “It is in the interest of the United States to ensure the safety of Greenland.”
Vance expressed concerns about Greenland falling under the influence of the Chinese Communist Party, stating that it would weaken global security. He emphasized the importance of Greenland having American weapons rather than Chinese weapons and suggested that a partnership could be secured once Greenland votes for independence.
While some in Greenland have expressed interest in partnering with the U.S. for defense guarantees in exchange for access to fishing lanes, Trump has shown a keen interest in Greenland’s rare earth minerals and energy opportunities. However, Greenland has previously blocked deals with the EU to access these resources due to environmental concerns.
Vance reiterated that the U.S. respects Greenland’s sovereignty and security and hopes that the territory will choose to partner with the United States. He emphasized that Greenland’s security is closely linked to American security, and that the U.S. is committed to ensuring the safety of the territory.
As the Trump administration continues to push for closer ties with Greenland, the future of the territory remains uncertain. Greenland’s decision on independence and potential partnerships will have significant implications for its security and economic development.
