U.S. Vice President JD Vance landed in Greenland Thursday, stirring fresh controversy as he met with American troops at Pituffik Space Base. The trip, widely seen as a provocation, comes amid growing backlash over Washington’s rumored plans to annex the Arctic territory.
First VP Visit Sparks Outrage
Vance, accompanied by his wife Usha, arrived quietly, skipping media and heading straight into an armored vehicle. He later addressed troops, calling it a “pretty cool thing” to be the first U.S. Vice President to visit Greenland.
“The Trump administration is serious about Arctic security,” Vance said. “This issue will only grow in importance over the coming decades.”
His remarks come as Copenhagen and Nuuk reel from speculation that the U.S. may attempt to claim Greenland. The White House fueled tensions, stating Vance would accuse Danish leaders of mistreating Greenlanders for decades.
Local Leaders Condemn the Visit
Greenlandic and Danish leaders have slammed the uninvited trip. New Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen called for unity, while outgoing leader Mute Egede demanded respect for Greenland’s democracy.
“Our integrity must be respected without foreign interference,” Egede warned.
Danish PM Mette Frederiksen echoed the criticism, labeling the visit “unacceptable pressure.” She stressed that no government was yet in place during the U.S. arrival, calling the timing disrespectful.
Usha Vance’s Plans Fall Flat
Initially, Usha Vance was scheduled to attend a dogsled race in Sisimiut. But after locals reportedly refused to meet her, the event was scrapped and replaced with a military tour.
Greenlanders made it clear: protests would follow any public appearance.
Vance visits Greenland: Strategic Site Fuels U.S. Interests
Pituffik Space Base, formerly Thule Air Base, plays a vital role in U.S. missile defense. Its Arctic location offers surveillance advantages over Russian missile paths.
While Washington claims Denmark has neglected the site, Danish defense officials argue they are addressing the issue. In January, Copenhagen pledged nearly $2 billion to upgrade Arctic infrastructure.
Protest and Resistance Grow
Polls show most Greenlanders oppose any move to join the U.S. All political parties support independence but reject American annexation. The visit has sparked new protests, with extra police deployed across the island.
Energy Secretary Chris Wright, a former mining exec, also joined the trip. He voiced hopes of cooperation in mineral extraction, a move Greenlanders fear signals deeper U.S. interest in their natural resources, as Vance visits Greenland.
Russia and the EU Respond
Russian President Vladimir Putin weighed in, calling the U.S. plans “serious” and warning of potential conflict escalation in the Arctic.
European leaders are standing with Denmark. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said she was monitoring the situation, underscoring unity with Denmark and Greenland.
Greenland Asserts Its Autonomy
The new four-party coalition government in Greenland has made it clear: independence is the goal, not U.S. annexation. PM Nielsen emphasized the need to withstand outside pressure through cooperation and shared purpose.
“Only united can we face the pressure,” he said. “We must stand strong.”
As Vance wraps his visit, tensions remain high, with officials on both sides bracing for the next diplomatic move in a crisis that’s far from over.
