Vice President JD Vance arrives at Pituffik Space Base in Greenland, Friday, March 28, 2025.
Jim Watson/AP/POOL AFP
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Jim Watson/AP/POOL AFP
In a tense exchange over Arctic security, Denmark’s foreign minister has criticized the Trump administration’s recent remarks concerning Denmark and Greenland. The Danish official highlighted ongoing investments in the Arctic region and expressed openness to collaboration with the United States.
Following U.S. Vice President JD Vance’s visit to the strategically important island, Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen took to social media to address the situation. He conveyed Denmark’s disapproval of the “tone” used by the U.S. in its criticisms, emphasizing the continued alliance between the two nations despite recent tensions.
“Many accusations and many allegations have been made. And of course we are open to criticism,” stated Rasmussen, speaking in English. “But let me be completely honest: we do not appreciate the tone in which it is 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.”
Greenland, a territory of Denmark and a NATO ally of the United States, has become a focal point due to President Donald Trump’s interest in acquiring it for national security reasons. In an interview, Trump suggested that military force could be considered in this endeavor, though he believed other options might suffice.
Despite the controversial nature of the U.S. administration’s stance, Trump was quoted saying, “I don’t care” when asked about the potential message it sends to Russian President Vladimir Putin amid tensions involving Ukrainian territory.
As part of his visit, Vance criticized Denmark for allegedly “underinvesting” in Greenland’s security and urged a change in approach. His visit included a tour of U.S. troops stationed at Pituffik Space Base alongside his wife and senior officials, a trip adjusted due to local opposition.
Vance conveyed a straightforward message: “Our message to Denmark is very simple: You have not done a good job by the people of Greenland,” he remarked. “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.”
In response to these developments, the Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen dismissed claims of insufficient defense efforts, affirming Denmark’s status as a “good and strong ally.”
Meanwhile, Greenlandic lawmakers have formed a coalition government to resist U.S. overtures, with four of the five parties in Greenland’s parliament joining forces to control 23 of the 31 seats.
Denmark’s King Frederik X expressed solidarity with Greenland through a Facebook post, while protests erupted outside the U.S. Embassy in Copenhagen, with demonstrators holding signs such as “back off, USA,” as reported by Danish broadcaster TV2.
Even cultural events, such as Greenland’s national dogsled race, Avannaata Qimussersu, were affected by the political climate. Usha Vance, the Vice President’s wife, opted out of attending the race to accompany her husband at the military base, minimizing interaction with locals.
Rasmussen referenced the 1951 defense agreement between Denmark and the U.S., noting the longstanding American military presence in Greenland, which has been significantly reduced over time. He mentioned the potential for increased U.S. military presence should it be desired, inviting discussions on the matter.
To bolster Arctic defense, Denmark has committed 14.6 billion Danish kroner (approximately $2.1 billion USD) for new naval vessels, long-range drones, and satellite investments.
