JD Vance Slams Denmark, Defends US Interests In Greenland, Cites Russia-China Threats

US Vice President JD Vance vehemently condemned Denmark on Friday, blaming it for not protecting Greenland’s security from growing Chinese and Russian influence. Addressing the Pituffik Space Base in northwestern Greenland, Vance accused Denmark of having underinvested in the Arctic region and its citizens.

“Denmark’s message to us is this You haven’t done enough for the security of Greenland or its citizens,” Vance declared, as reported by AFP. He dismissed an expansion of the US military presence at this time but confirmed plans to increase naval capabilities in the area.

At the same time, President Donald Trump restated his stance on Greenland as a strategic location, saying, “We need Greenland for international security. We can’t rely on Denmark or anyone else to handle this.” Trump referred to increasing Chinese and Russian naval activities in the waters of the island as a pressing concern.

Vance’s visit coincided with the formation of a new coalition government in Greenland, headed by Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen, whose party advocates gradual independence from Denmark. Nielsen condemned the US visit as evidence of a “lack of respect” and summoned national unity.

Public backlash against US involvement in Greenland has grown, with protests breaking out in the capital city of Nuuk. Protesters carried signs that said “Our Land. Our Future” and wore “Make America Go Away” hats. Polls show that the majority of Greenlanders are against joining the US.

Denmark’s King Frederik showed support for Greenland, while Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen recognized increasing tensions, saying, “I look forward to close cooperation in these unnecessarily conflict-ridden times.”

Experts say Trump and Vance will keep employing diplomatic and economic pressure to promote their interests in Greenland, although outright US domination is unlikely.