Vance, the US vice president, calls for Greenland to sever ties with Denmark

Danish politicians have reacted negatively to JD Vance’s accusations that Denmark is ignoring Greenland’s security and his call for the island to cut connections. 

US Vice President JD Vance has urged the Arctic island to “cut a deal” with the US in place of Denmark, accusing the latter of failing to defend Greenland against purported threats from China and Russia. 

Vance emphasized that the security of Greenland was essential to US interests while downplaying previous comments made by President Donald Trump regarding the island’s forcible acquisition during a quick visit to Pituffik Space Base in Greenland. 

Vance stated that the US was the only country that would uphold Greenland’s sovereignty while guaranteeing its security, adding, “We think we’re going to be able to cut a deal, Donald Trump-style.” 

Danish politicians and Greenland’s leadership swiftly denounced the comments, with Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen referring to the visit as a “lack of respect” for the people of Greenland. King Frederik of Denmark, who has strong ties to Greenland, likewise rejected the US strategy. 

Full independence has long been a topic of discussion in Denmark’s semi-autonomous province of Greenland. According to a January poll, the majority of Greenlanders oppose US annexation, even if five of the six major political parties favor ultimate independence. 

Vance’s accusations of underinvestment were denied by Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, who pointed to higher defense budget, monitoring, and new Arctic security measures. She reiterated Denmark’s dedication to collaboration, but she underlined that these talks must be governed by international law. 

Originally presented as a cultural tour under the direction of Second Lady Usha Vance, the visit swiftly became a diplomatic hot spot, with demonstrations scheduled in the capital of Greenland, Nuuk. Many locals expressed worries about US intentions, thinking that American rule might replace Danish. 

Citing worries about Chinese and Russian engagement in the area, Trump emphasized from the White House that obtaining Greenland was essential for maintaining international security. He alluded to intensifying attempts to influence the leadership of Greenland to accept closer US relations. 

While acknowledging Trump’s aspirations for Greenland, Russian President Vladimir Putin cautioned that tensions could be heightened by NATO’s increased attention to the Arctic. 

Analysts speculate that the US would try to avoid Denmark and forge a direct connection with Greenland in light of growing geopolitical interest in the Arctic’s vital resources. It’s unclear if Greenland’s politicians will consider such an offer.