During his visit to Greenland, JD Vance criticized Denmark for its handling of the territory, while President Donald Trump renewed his push for the US to acquire the island.
Vice President Vance, accompanied by his wife Usha and other high-ranking US officials, landed at an American military base in Greenland, a semi-autonomous region that has been under Danish control for over six centuries.
Stay updated: Key points from Vance’s address in Greenland
“Our message to Denmark is clear: you have not adequately cared for the people of Greenland,” Mr Vance declared.
“There has been a lack of investment in the people of Greenland and in the security infrastructure of this remarkable, pristine landmass inhabited by remarkable individuals.
“We must ensure that America takes the lead in the Arctic.”
Just prior to Mr Vance’s remarks in Greenland, President Trump reiterated his intentions of securing the territory, stating: “Greenland is vital for international security.
“We require Greenland. It’s not a matter of whether we can do without it – we cannot.”
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player
‘We need Greenland’ says Trump
Lars-Christian Brask, deputy speaker of the Danish parliament, told Sky News that Mr Vance was unwelcome during his visit to Greenland.
“It’s a NATO nation requesting control of another NATO member, which is highly unusual and shows a lack of respect,” he remarked.
The one-day trip to the US Space Force outpost at Pituffik on the northwest coast of Greenland was structured to adhere to diplomatic norms and avoid any breach of protocol regarding official visits without prior invitation.
The visit was modified after local disapproval of the initial itinerary created without consulting residents, especially considering Mr Trump’s persistent assertions of the need for US dominance over Greenland.
Addressing troops at the US base, Mr Vance criticized Denmark and Europe for failing to safeguard the region.
JD Vance tours the US military’s Pituffik Space Base in Greenland. Pic: Reuters
He expressed, “This location, this base, and the surrounding area are less secure than they were 30-40 years ago, as some of our allies have not kept pace…
“Europe has fallen behind… in military expenditures, and Denmark has not allocated the necessary resources to safeguard this base, our troops, and, in my opinion, the people of Greenland from potential threats posed by Russia, China, and other nations.”
Mr Vance praised President Trump as “a champion of peace”, stating: “We respect the self-determination of Greenlanders, support their right to choose their own future.”
When asked about plans for a military takeover of Greenland, he noted that the White House intended to await the territory’s populace to vote on self-determination before taking action.
“What the president has suggested… is that we need to bolster our presence in Greenland,” he elaborated.
More to explore:
Insights on Vance’s chilly reception
Perspectives from Greenlanders on Trump’s demands
Reasons behind Trump’s interest in Greenland
Russia and America’s Arctic strategies present another trial for Europe
JD Vance and his wife have lunch with soldiers at Pituffik Space Base in Greenland. Pic: AP
Greenland, the largest island globally with a population of 57,000, is also a founding member of NATO.
Situated in the Arctic circle between the US, Russia, and Europe, the island presents a unique geopolitical advantage sought after by America for over a century and a half.
Earlier this week, Russian President Vladimir Putin acknowledged the US’s interest in Greenland, attributing it to the territory’s abundant mineral resources.
“At first glance, it may seem surprising, but don’t be mistaken thinking this is merely rhetoric from the current US administration,” Mr Putin remarked.