Denmark has expressed displeasure regarding the harsh criticism from US Vice President JD Vance concerning supposed Danish inaction in Greenland, stated the Danish Foreign Minister on Saturday.
“We are open to criticism, but, to be completely honest, we do not appreciate the tone in which it was delivered,” said Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen in a video message on X. “This is not how one addresses close allies, and I still consider Denmark and the United States to be close allies,” he added.
Visiting the only American military base in Greenland on Friday, JD Vance asserted that Denmark “has not done a good job for the people of Greenland,” accusing them of insufficient investment in the vast Arctic island that Donald Trump has shown interest in.
“The 1951 defense agreement offers the US numerous opportunities for a stronger military presence in Greenland. If that is what you want, let’s discuss it,” responded the Danish minister, referencing the treaty governing the American presence in Greenland.
He reminded that in 1945, the US had 17 bases and military installations in Greenland, with thousands of soldiers.
“We can do more, much more within the current framework,” he added.
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The American base in Pituffik serves as a missile defense outpost, as the shortest trajectory of missiles from Russia to the United States passes through Greenland.
Donald Trump reiterated on Friday, “We need Greenland, and it is very important for international security.” His vice president ruled out using force to achieve their aims, assuring that he would convince the people of Greenland to ally with the United States and sign an agreement.
Greenland has recently established a new coalition government, and a majority of Greenlanders seek independence for the territory, which enjoys significant autonomy within the Kingdom of Denmark.
