Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has strongly criticized the United States for exerting “unacceptable pressure” on Denmark and Greenland following an uninvited American delegation’s planned visit to the Arctic island. The visit, announced by the White House without prior consultation with Danish or Greenlandic leaders, has sparked diplomatic tensions.
During an interview with Danish media on Tuesday, Frederiksen condemned the trip, emphasizing Denmark’s rejection of foreign interference.
US Delegation’s Unilateral Greenland Trip Triggers Backlash
The US delegation, scheduled to visit Greenland from Thursday to Sunday, includes Usha Vance, wife of Vice President JD Vance, National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, and Energy Secretary Chris Wright.
Frederiksen responded sharply, stating, “You cannot make a private visit with official representatives from another country.”
She affirmed Denmark’s stance against external pressure, declaring, “We will resist this pressure.”
Trump Revives Interest in Greenland Acquisition
Former President Donald Trump defended the visit on Monday, insisting that the trip was meant to show “friendliness, not provocation.”
However, he reiterated his long-standing interest in acquiring Greenland for national security reasons, reigniting concerns in Copenhagen and Nuuk. Denmark and Greenland have previously dismissed any notion of selling the island.
Greenland’s Leadership Rejects Visit as ‘Aggressive’
Greenland’s Prime Minister Múte Egede labeled the visit “highly aggressive,” clarifying that no official meetings would take place during the trip.
Greenland recently held elections and awaits the formation of a new government, with Egede remaining in office until a new cabinet is confirmed.
Expressing concern on social media, Egede wrote, “The signal is not to be misunderstood,” warning that Waltz’s visit signaled a clear show of force.
Frederiksen Stands with Greenland
Frederiksen echoed Egede’s strong reaction, emphasizing that Greenland’s rejection of the visit should be respected.
“When Greenland says no, we must respect that,” she asserted, questioning the purpose of the US delegation’s trip.
“This is not about Greenland’s needs or wishes,” she concluded.
Greenland’s Autonomy and Denmark’s Support
While Greenland enjoys self-governance, it remains a Danish territory. Denmark supports Greenland’s right to independence, should it choose that path.
Trump’s previous attempt to purchase Greenland was swiftly rejected by both Copenhagen and Nuuk, and this renewed interest has further strained diplomatic relations.
JD Vance Criticizes Denmark’s Arctic Policies
Vice President JD Vance recently accused Denmark of failing to counter China’s expanding influence in Arctic trade routes. Speaking to Fox News, he suggested the US should take a stronger territorial interest in Greenland.
“President Trump will act if needed,” Vance stated, fueling speculation about US strategic intentions.
Delegation’s Planned Activities: Tourism and Military Briefings
Despite the diplomatic tensions, Usha Vance’s office claimed that her visit to Greenland was primarily cultural, with plans to tour historic sites with one of her children to learn more about Greenlandic heritage.
Meanwhile, Waltz and Wright are set to visit the US Pituffik Space Base, where they will receive briefings from American service members stationed there.
With US-Greenland relations under the spotlight, the impact of this visit remains uncertain. The trip underscores growing geopolitical competition in the Arctic and the ongoing struggle for influence in the region.