Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has strongly criticized the United States for exerting what she called “unacceptable pressure” on Greenland and Denmark. Her remarks followed reports of an uninvited US delegation heading to the Arctic island, sparking tensions between the longtime allies.
US Delegation Plans Controversial Visit
The White House has confirmed that a high-ranking US delegation plans to visit Greenland from Thursday to Sunday. The group includes Second Lady Usha Vance, National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, and Energy Secretary Chris Wright. Their trip has drawn criticism from Danish and Greenlandic leaders, who argue that such visits should be coordinated with the governments involved.
Frederiksen Rejects Visit as Improper
Frederiksen did not hold back in her disapproval of the visit. “You cannot make a private visit with official representatives from another country,” she told Danish media. She described the move as undue pressure on Greenland and Denmark, vowing to resist any such interference.
Trump Repeats Interest in Greenland
US President Donald Trump defended the visit, reiterating his past interest in acquiring Greenland for strategic purposes. He insisted that the delegation’s trip was intended as a friendly gesture, not an act of provocation. However, many Danish and Greenlandic officials remain unconvinced.
Greenland’s Leader Calls Visit Aggressive
Greenland’s Prime Minister Múte Egede has also condemned the visit, labeling it “highly aggressive.” He stated that no official meetings would take place between Greenlandic authorities and the US representatives. Given that Greenland is in the middle of a governmental transition following recent elections, Egede expressed concerns that such visits could disrupt the island’s political process. He shared his frustration on social media, writing, “There is worry on the island over the visits.”
Egede Sees Trip as a Power Play
Egede directed his criticism at National Security Adviser Waltz, arguing that the visit was intended as a demonstration of power rather than a diplomatic effort. “The only purpose of Waltz’s trip is a show of force,” he said.
Frederiksen Supports Greenland’s Position
Frederiksen backed Egede’s stance, emphasizing the need to respect Greenland’s autonomy. “When Greenlandic politicians say they do not want the visit, you must respect that,” she stated. She further argued that the trip was not reflective of Greenland’s needs or interests.
Greenland’s Right to Independence
Although Greenland remains part of the Kingdom of Denmark, it governs itself and holds the right to declare full independence if it chooses. Denmark has made it clear that any such decision would be supported. Despite being a close ally of the US, Denmark has firmly rejected previous American attempts to buy Greenland.
US Vice President Criticizes Denmark’s Role in the Arctic
Adding to the tension, US Vice President JD Vance recently accused Denmark of failing to counter Chinese maritime activity in the Arctic. “Denmark is not doing its job,” he said in an interview with Fox News. “If that means taking more territorial interest in Greenland, we will do it.” His comments fueled speculation that the US is actively seeking to expand its influence over the Arctic region.
US Delegation Plans Heritage Visit
According to her office, Second Lady Usha Vance and one of her children plan to visit Greenland’s historic sites to learn more about the island’s cultural heritage. While this aspect of the visit appears non-political, it remains part of the broader controversy surrounding the trip.
US Officials to Visit Military Base
A spokesperson for the National Security Council confirmed that Waltz and Wright would also visit the US military space base at Pituffik. “They will receive first-hand briefings from service members on the ground,” he said, adding that this was a routine visit and should not come as a surprise.
As tensions continue to rise, the visit underscores ongoing geopolitical struggles over Greenland’s strategic position. Whether it will lead to further diplomatic fallout remains to be seen.