Denmark Denounces U.S. Remarks on Greenland, Demands Respectful Dialogue

Denmark has expressed its willingness to engage in discussions with the United States regarding the status quo in Greenland, following Vice President JD Vance’s controversial remarks accusing Copenhagen of inadequately protecting the Arctic territory. In a post on X directed at Denmark’s “dear American friends,” Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen emphasized the need for collaboration to address the challenges facing Greenland.

Rasmussen acknowledged the many “accusations and allegations” surrounding Greenland but made it clear that the tone of Vance’s comments was unwelcome. “Of course, we are open to criticism, but let me be completely honest — we do not appreciate the tone in which it’s being delivered,” he stated. “This is not how you speak to your close allies,” he added, reaffirming Denmark’s view of the U.S. as a key ally.

Leaders from Denmark and Greenland have previously pushed back against former President Trump’s ambition to gain control of the island, criticizing his perceived overreach while advocating for enhanced military and economic cooperation in the region. Rasmussen stated, “We respect that the United States needs a greater military presence in Greenland,” and expressed openness to discussing this need further.

He pointed out that the existing bilateral defense agreement, signed in 1951, allows for a stronger U.S. military presence in Greenland, urging American officials to engage in discussions if that is their intention.

Vance, during his recent visit to Greenland, reiterated Trump’s desire for increased U.S. involvement in the territory. Speaking to American service members at the U.S. Pituffik Space Base, he emphasized the necessity of addressing Greenland’s security, stating, “We can’t just ignore this place,” and underscored the importance of Greenland under the U.S. security umbrella.

While Vance acknowledged the self-determination of the Greenlandic people, he suggested that they would be safer under U.S. oversight, criticizing Denmark for underinvesting in both the population and the security of the island. “Our message to Denmark is very simple: You have not done a good job by the people of Greenland,” he said.

Rasmussen responded by noting that both Denmark and the U.S. have historically done too little in the Arctic since the Cold War, stating, “We all acted on the assumption that the Arctic was and should be a low tension area, but that time is over.” He reiterated that the status quo is no longer acceptable.

Trump has made headlines for his repeated assertions about acquiring Greenland, a notion that has been met with widespread disapproval from Greenlandic, Danish, and European leaders. A recent poll revealed that only 6% of Greenlanders support becoming part of the U.S., with 9% undecided, indicating minimal local enthusiasm for the proposal.

Strategically located near the northern coast of Russia and crucial shipping routes, Greenland is also believed to harbor significant mineral resources. As climate change leads to further sea ice retreat, these routes and resources are becoming increasingly accessible, heightening international interest.

In a recent Oval Office statement, Trump reiterated the importance of Greenland, asserting, “We have to have Greenland. It’s not a question of: Do you think we can do without it? We can’t.” He emphasized the geopolitical significance of the island, insisting that the U.S. would not rely on Denmark or any other nation for its security interests in the region. “Greenland’s very important for the peace of the world,” he concluded, urging Denmark and the European Union to understand its strategic value.