Danish foreign minister scolds Trump administration after JD Vance trip to Greenland – National

The Danish foreign minister criticized the Trump administration for its “tone” in criticizing Denmark and Greenland, emphasizing that Denmark is already investing more in Arctic security and is open to further cooperation with the U.S.

Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen made these comments in a video posted on social media following U.S. Vice President JD Vance’s visit to the strategic island.

“Many accusations and allegations have been made. And while we are open to criticism,” Rasmussen said in English, “we do not appreciate the tone in which it is being delivered. This is not how you speak to your close allies. I still consider Denmark and the United States to be close allies.”

Vance stated that Denmark has “underinvested” in Greenland’s security and called for a change in approach as President Trump seeks to acquire the Danish territory.

Vance visited U.S. troops at the Pituffik Space Base on mineral-rich Greenland, accompanied by his wife and other senior U.S. officials. The trip was scaled back following uproar among Greenlanders and Danes who were not consulted about the original itinerary.

“Our message to Denmark is very simple: You have not done a good job by the people of Greenland,” Vance said. “You have underinvested in the people of Greenland, and you have underinvested in the security architecture of this incredible, beautiful landmass filled with incredible people. That has to change.”

See also  Trump tariffs not large enough to trigger recession so far in Canada: RBC - National

1:51
Frosty welcome for U.S. Vice President JD Vance in Greenland

Previous Video

Next Video

Trump released a video on his social networking site Truth Social titled “America Stands With Greenland,” showcasing footage of U.S. troops in Greenland during World War II.

In Greenland, Vance stated that the U.S. must take a significant position to ensure the security of the island, while also advocating for Greenland’s independence from Denmark.

“I think that they ultimately will partner with the United States,” Vance said. “We could make them much more secure. We could do a lot more protection. And I think they’d fare a lot better economically as well.”

The response from members of Greenland’s parliament and residents has made this scenario unlikely, with backlash against the Trump administration’s efforts to annex the Arctic island. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen refuted Vance’s claim that Denmark is not doing enough for Arctic defense, emphasizing that her country is “a good and strong ally.”

2:11
‘Provocation’: Greenland slams planned visit by US Second Lady Usha Vance, Trump officials

Previous Video

Next Video

Greenlandic lawmakers have agreed to form a new government, uniting to resist Trump’s advances. Four out of the five parties elected to Greenland’s parliament have formed a coalition with 23 out of 31 seats in the legislature.

The next day, Danish King Frederik X took to Facebook to express, “We live in an altered reality. There should be no doubt that my love for Greenland and my connectedness to the people of Greenland are intact.”

Outside the U.S. Embassy in Copenhagen, hundreds of protesters demonstrated, with some holding signs that read, “back off, USA,” as reported by Danish broadcaster TV2.

Even Greenland’s national dogsled race, Avannaata Qimussersu, which commenced with 37 mushers and 444 dogs on Saturday, was not untouched by the controversy.

Usha Vance, the vice president’s wife, initially scheduled to attend the race, chose not to participate when her husband opted to visit the military base instead, reducing the chances of encountering Greenlanders.

In his video, Løkke Rasmussen highlighted the 1951 defense agreement between Denmark and the United States. He noted the reduction in American military presence in Greenland from thousands of soldiers across 17 bases and installations to the current presence of about 200 soldiers at the remote Pituffik Space Base in the northwest.

The 1951 agreement provides the opportunity for the United States to strengthen its military presence in Greenland, according to the foreign minister. “If that is what you wish, then let us discuss it,” he stated.

Løkke Rasmussen also mentioned Denmark’s increased investment in Arctic defense, including the announcement of 14.6 billion Danish kroner (US$2.1 billion) in financial commitments for Arctic security in January, covering three new naval vessels, long-range drones, and satellites.