Pituffik: U.S. Vice President JD Vance has accused Denmark of doing a poor job ensuring the security of Greenland, demanding that the Scandinavian country change its approach as President Donald Trump pushes to annex the self-governing Arctic island.
According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Vance criticized Denmark for not allocating enough resources to maintain the security of Greenland during a visit to the U.S. military base at Pituffik in northern Greenland. He expressed concerns over aggressive incursions from Russia, China, and other nations and suggested that the United States could provide better protection.
Vance emphasized that Denmark has underinvested in Greenland's security and its people. He called for change, stating, "You have not done a good job by the people of Greenland." He also mentioned that while the U.S. does not plan to expand its military presence immediately, it intends to invest in naval ships and military icebreakers to enhance security.
He highlighted the strategic importance of the Arctic region, noting the increased interest from Russia and China in its passageways, naval routes, and mineral resources. Vance expressed optimism about a potential partnership with Greenland, suggesting that they would benefit from increased security and economic opportunities.
Denmark's prime minister dismissed Vance's remarks as unfair. Meanwhile, President Trump has repeatedly underscored Greenland's significance to U.S. national security, citing existing American military bases there. His interest in acquiring the territory has faced strong opposition from Greenlandic lawmakers and citizens, leading to protests in Nuuk, Greenland's capital, earlier this month. Demonstrators carried signs asserting Greenland's sovereignty and rejecting the idea of a U.S. purchase.