JD Vance criticises Denmark's handling of Greenland's defence

US calls for closer ties with Greenland, despite opposition from local leaders.

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US Vice President JD Vance has sharply criticised Denmark for failing to adequately protect Greenland from increasing threats, particularly from Russia and China.

Speaking during a visit to the US military base at Pituffik in the north of the Arctic island, Vance claimed Denmark had not invested sufficient resources into Greenland's security, leaving the territory vulnerable to foreign incursions.

During his visit on Friday, Vance expressed that while the US would not expand its military presence in Greenland immediately, it would invest more in naval assets and military icebreakers.

He suggested that the people of Greenland might benefit from closer cooperation with the US and sever ties with Denmark, which has controlled the semi-autonomous island since 1721.

“Denmark has not kept pace and devoted the necessary resources to keep this base, to keep our troops, and in my view, to keep the people of Greenland safe,” Vance said.

 

 

 

 

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He pointed to the growing interest of Russia and China in Arctic passageways and mineral resources as a threat to regional security, although he provided no specifics on the alleged incursions.

The remarks drew immediate backlash from Danish officials, including Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, who called the criticisms “unfair” and emphasised Denmark's longstanding military cooperation with the US. "For many years we have stood side by side with the Americans under very difficult circumstances," Frederiksen said in a statement, asserting that Denmark had significantly increased defence spending.

Greenland's newly appointed Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen also voiced dissatisfaction with Vance's comments, describing the US visit as a "lack of respect" for Greenland’s people.

Despite the protests, Vance maintained that Greenlanders would ultimately realise the benefits of a partnership with the US, both in terms of security and economic growth.

The dispute over Greenland's future comes as the island holds vast mineral, oil, and natural gas reserves, attracting the attention of global powers.

The US government has long expressed interest in the territory due to its strategic location and abundant resources, though Greenland's citizens have overwhelmingly opposed becoming part of the United States. Demonstrations have been held in Nuuk, with protesters voicing concerns over potential US annexation.

President Donald Trump has previously stated that Greenland is crucial for global security, citing its significance in military and trade routes. "We need Greenland, very importantly, for international security," Trump said earlier this week, highlighting the presence of Chinese and Russian ships in the region.

Despite Greenland’s growing political autonomy, foreign and defence policy decisions remain under Danish control. A majority of political parties in Greenland now favour gradual independence, although there is disagreement over the pace of achieving it.