Denmark has expressed dissatisfaction with comments made by U.S. Vice President JD Vance regarding Greenland, highlighting a strain in the relationship between the two allied nations.
On Saturday, Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen responded on X, stating, “We are open to criticisms, but let me be completely honest, we do not appreciate the tone in which it’s being delivered. This is not how you speak to your close allies, and I still consider Denmark and the United States to be close allies.”
Vice President Vance made his remarks during a visit to the Pituffik Space Base in northwestern Greenland. Addressing a press conference, he criticized Denmark’s engagement with Greenland, saying, “Our message to Denmark is very simple: You have not done a good job by the people of Greenland. You have under-invested in the people of Greenland and you have under-invested in the security architecture of this incredible, beautiful landmass.”
President Donald Trump emphasized the strategic importance of Greenland for both national and international security. Speaking to reporters at the White House, he remarked, “We are not talking about peace for the United States. We are talking about world peace. We are talking about international security.” Trump has not ruled out the use of force to secure the territory.
When questioned about the possibility of using force, Vance clarified, “We do not think that is ever going to be necessary. We think this makes sense and because we think the people of Greenland are rational and good, we think we’re going to be able to cut a deal, Donald Trump-style, to ensure the security of this territory but also the United States of America.”
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen also addressed Vance’s comments, stating, “For many years, we have stood by the Americans in very difficult situations,” referencing Denmark’s military involvement alongside the U.S. in Iraq and Afghanistan. “The Vice President’s reference to Denmark is not accurate,” she added.
Vice President Vance was accompanied on his visit by his wife Usha, National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, Energy Secretary Chris Wright, Utah Senator Mike Lee, and former Homeland Security Advisor Julia Nesheiwat.
The exchange highlights growing tensions over the future of Greenland, a strategically located and resource-rich territory. The international community watches closely as discussions continue between the United States and Denmark.
