JD Vance Criticizes Denmark During Greenland Visit Following Trump’s Assertion That the US ‘Needs’ the Island | World News
JD Vance has expressed to Denmark that it has “not performed well” regarding Greenland during his visit to the territory, as President Donald Trump reiterated his desire for the US to take control of the island.
Vice President Vance, his spouse Usha, along with other high-ranking US officials, arrived at an American military facility in Greenland, a territory that has been under Danish rule for over 600 years.
Stay updated: Highlights from Vance’s address in Greenland
“Our message to Denmark is straightforward: you have not adequately supported the people of Greenland,” Mr. Vance stated.
“You have not invested enough in the populace of Greenland, nor in the security framework of this magnificent, stunning land filled with extraordinary individuals.
“It is crucial for America to take a lead role in the Arctic.”
Before Mr. Vance addressed the audience from Greenland on Friday, Mr. Trump reiterated his assertions regarding the necessity of taking over the territory, stating: “We require Greenland, significantly, for international security.
“Having Greenland is essential. It’s not a matter of whether we can manage without it – we absolutely cannot.”
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‘We need Greenland’ says Trump
The day-long trip to the US Space Force outpost at Pituffik – situated on the northwest coast of the territory – has managed to sidestep any potential diplomatic faux pas of a state dispatching a delegation to another nation without an invitation.
The original itinerary was modified after locals expressed their displeasure over the lack of consultation, especially considering Mr. Trump’s persistent assertions that the US ought to oversee Greenland.
Speaking to military personnel at the US base, Mr. Vance argued that Denmark – and by extension, Europe – have failed to safeguard the area.
JD Vance tours the US military’s Pituffik Space Base in Greenland. Pic: Reuters
He stated: “This place, this base, and the surrounding area are less secure than they were 30-40 years ago, as some of our allies have not maintained their commitment…
“Europe has not kept up… with military expenditures, and Denmark has failed to allocate the necessary resources to support this base, our troops, and importantly, the inhabitants of Greenland against increasing aggressive actions from Russia, China, and other countries.”
Mr. Vance commented that Mr. Trump is “a president of peace,” stating: “We honor the self-determination of the Greenlanders; we believe in their right to self-governance.”
When questioned about any plans for military action to seize Greenland, he suggested that the White House intends to wait for the inhabitants of the territory to express their choice for self-determination prior to any moves.
“What the president has indicated… is our need for a more established presence in Greenland,” he added.
Learn more:
What motivates Trump’s interest in Greenland?
Russia and America’s ambitions in the Arctic present another challenge for Europe
JD Vance and his wife share a meal with military personnel at Pituffik Space Base in Greenland. Pic: AP
Greenland is the largest island globally and a self-governing territory of Denmark, hosting a population of 57,000. It is also a founding member of NATO.
Located at the Arctic Circle between the US, Russia, and Europe, the island holds a unique geopolitical significance that the United States has sought to exploit for over 150 years.
Earlier this week, Russian President Vladimir Putin noted he was not surprised by the US’s interest in Greenland, considering its longstanding pursuit of the resource-rich territory.
“It may seem surprising only at first glance, and it would be incorrect to assume that this is merely fanciful talk from the current US administration,” Mr. Putin remarked.
