U.S. Vice President Calls for Greenland to Renounce Ties with Denmark Over Security Concerns

Ankara, March 29, 2025 – During a recent visit to Greenland, U.S. Vice President JD Vance urged the island to sever its longstanding ties with Denmark, citing security issues as a primary concern. This appeal aligns with the ongoing U.S. interest in Greenland's strategic position, a matter that remains contentious on both sides of the Atlantic.

Vance’s remarks were made during a brief stop at the U.S. Pituffik Space Base in northern Greenland. He criticized the Danish government for what he termed an under-investment in the security and welfare of Greenland, stating, “You have under-invested in the people of Greenland and you have under-invested in the security of this incredible, beautiful landmass.” However, he provided no concrete evidence for these claims.

The visit was scaled down significantly after reports surfaced about potential protests in response to his presence in more public areas. Accompanying Vance were National Security Adviser Mike Waltz and Energy Secretary Chris Wright. While there are no immediate plans to increase U.S. military personnel on the island, Vance indicated that the U.S. intends to bolster its resources in the region, which may include deploying additional naval vessels and military icebreakers.

Temperatures during Vance's visit hovered around a bitter -19 degrees Celsius (-2.2 degrees Fahrenheit), and the trip lasted only a few hours. Despite the chilly weather, Vance’s comments have ignited a backlash. Greenland’s Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen criticized the visit as disrespectful to the Greenlandic people.

Denmark's Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen responded to Vance's accusations by highlighting her country’s efforts to increase Arctic defense spending. She noted significant investments in new surveillance systems, long-range drones, and naval ships, asserting, “For many years we have stood side by side with the Americans. Therefore, it is not an accurate way for the vice president to refer to Denmark.”

Since gaining home rule in 2009, Greenland has managed its own domestic affairs while Denmark retains oversight of its foreign and defense policies. Polling indicates strong opposition among the Greenlandic public towards the notion of U.S. annexation. Local resident Nina expressed her unease, stating, “I’m concerned. This is kind of odd, I don’t like it.”

Previous discussions on this topic date back to when former U.S. President Donald Trump labeled Greenland as crucial for “international security,” particularly mentioning the importance of countering Chinese and Russian maritime activity in the area. Trump had previously described acquiring Greenland as essential for U.S. interests, asserting, “We have to have Greenland... We can’t do without it.”

In response to the renewed interest from U.S. officials, Greenlandic politician Qupanuk Olsen raised alarms about potential neo-colonialism, stating, “We’re afraid of being colonized again. Now another colonizer is interested in us.”

As the debate over Greenland’s future continues, it remains clear that the relationship between the island, Denmark, and the U.S. will be closely watched in the coming months.