24

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has strongly criticized the United States for what she describes as “unacceptable pressure” on Greenland. The controversy arose after the White House announced a visit by US officials without prior consultation with Denmark or Greenland.

The US delegation, set to visit Greenland from Thursday to Sunday, includes Second Lady Usha Vance, National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, and Energy Secretary Chris Wright. Despite no official meetings being scheduled, the delegation plans to tour the semi-autonomous territory.

Frederiksen Rejects Unilateral US Approach

Frederiksen voiced her frustration over the visit, stating, “You cannot make a private visit with official representatives from another country.” She described the US actions as disrespectful and politically insensitive, reaffirming that both Denmark and Greenland would resist such pressure.

“When Greenlandic leaders reject the visit, it cannot be interpreted as respectful,” Frederiksen told Danish media, emphasizing that Greenland should not be treated as a bargaining chip.

Trump Defends Greenland Interest

Former President Donald Trump defended the trip on Monday, reiterating his long-standing interest in Greenland due to its national security significance. He claimed that the visit reflected “friendliness, not provocation.” However, Greenland’s Prime Minister Múte Egede firmly rejected that assertion.

Greenland’s Leadership Calls Visit ‘Aggressive’

Prime Minister Egede described the visit as “highly aggressive” and confirmed that no Greenlandic officials would meet with the US delegation. He expressed concerns that the trip was designed to project US power rather than foster genuine diplomatic relations.

Egede posted on Facebook, stating that Waltz’s trip aimed to “demonstrate power” and “send an unmistakable signal.” He warned that Greenland would not overlook the implications of such a move.

Frederiksen: US Ignoring Greenland’s Sovereignty

Frederiksen accused the US of disregarding Greenland’s autonomy. “This is not a visit based on Greenland’s needs or wishes,” she stated. “Both Greenland and Denmark deserve more respect from allies.”

Greenland remains a self-governing territory under Danish rule, with the right to seek independence when it chooses. However, US interest in the Arctic has continued to grow due to Greenland’s strategic location.

US Vice President JD Vance Criticizes Denmark’s Arctic Policies

Last month, US Vice President JD Vance criticized Denmark for allegedly failing to counter Chinese influence in Arctic sea lanes. “Denmark is not doing its job,” Vance told Fox News, arguing that the US must protect its own national security interests.

“If that means more territorial interest in Greenland, Trump will act,” Vance said, fueling further concerns about US intentions in the region.

Delegation to Visit US Military Base in Greenland

During the visit, Usha Vance and her child are scheduled to tour historic Greenlandic sites to learn about the island’s cultural heritage. Meanwhile, Waltz and Wright will visit the US military space base in Pituffik, where they will receive briefings from US personnel stationed there.

A National Security Council spokesperson confirmed that the visit to the base is part of ongoing US security interests in Greenland.