NUUK, Greenland — In a recent development concerning Greenland, the Danish Foreign Minister expressed discontent with the aggressive rhetoric that the Trump administration has adopted regarding Denmark and Greenland. While acknowledging the need for increased Arctic security, he emphasized Denmark’s willingness to collaborate with the United States. These remarks from Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen came after a visit by U.S. Vice President JD Vance to the strategically important island.
U.S. President Donald Trump maintained a direct approach in his dialogue, reiterating to NBC News that military action remains an option for acquiring Greenland. “I never take military force off the table,” he asserted. Rasmussen, addressing these claims, stated, “Many accusations and allegations have been made. We are open to criticism, yet the tone is not fitting for allies. Denmark and the United States have always been close allies.”
Greenland, a Danish territory and a crucial NATO ally, has been a topic of interest for the Trump administration for its strategic importance. Trump suggested a non-military approach might be possible but reiterated that “this is about world peace and international security.”
Amid these discussions, Trump dismissed concerns regarding the signal it might send to Russian President Vladimir Putin, given the geopolitical tensions that have surfaced post the annexation of Ukrainian territories by Russia.
Vice President JD Vance critiqued Denmark’s approach to security in Greenland, citing an underinvestment in the region. He demanded a change, echoing Trump’s interest in acquiring the territory. Vance and various U.S. officials toured the U.S. troops stationed at Pituffik Space Base during his visit, although the trip received backlash from both Greenlanders and Danes due to a lack of consultation on the visit’s itinerary.
“Our message to Denmark is simple: Greenland has not been sufficiently secured,” said Vance. “There needs to be more investment in the security and welfare of Greenland.” In a bid to garner support, Trump released a video titled “America Stands With Greenland,” highlighting historical ties with footage of U.S. troops during World War II.
Vance expressed that the U.S. might need to solidify their presence on the island to ensure its security and suggested that Greenland might benefit from increased cooperation. However, the response from Greenlandic and Danish representatives was swift, with national lawmakers forming a new coalition government to resist such overtures. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen reaffirmed that Denmark remains a robust ally committed to Arctic defense.
In a symbolic gesture of unity, Danish King Frederik X voiced his enduring connection to Greenlanders, emphasizing that recent geopolitical maneuvers have not altered that bond.
In Copenhagen, demonstrators gathered in front of the U.S. Embassy, urging the U.S. to reconsider its approach with placards stating “back off, USA.” Additionally, the Greenland national dogsled race continued without major disruption, though Usha Vance, originally planned to attend, chose not to, aligning her schedule with her husband’s duties instead.
In light of these events, the Danish Foreign Minister revisited the historical 1951 defense agreement between the United States and Denmark, accentuating that it provides ample room for increased American military presence if so desired. Denmark has recently committed substantial resources to Arctic defense, underscoring its ongoing investment in secure and stable regional arrangements.