On Saturday, Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen publicly criticized the Trump administration, particularly its comments regarding Denmark’s role in Greenland. Rasmussen expressed his concerns over the tone of recent remarks made by US officials, calling for more respectful dialogue between allies.
In a video posted on social media, Rasmussen acknowledged that Denmark is always open to constructive criticism from its allies. However, he emphasized that such discussions must be conducted in a respectful manner, especially when it comes to strategic partnerships. He reaffirmed Denmark’s strong commitment to the United States as a close ally and partner.
Rasmussen’s response came after remarks made by US Vice President JD Vance during his visit to Greenland on Friday. Vance had harshly criticized Denmark for not taking a more active role in Greenland’s defense and security.
Denmark’s Arctic Investments Highlighted by Rasmussen
Rasmussen used his social media video to highlight Denmark’s historical and ongoing commitment to Arctic defense. He reminded viewers of the 1951 US-Denmark defense agreement, which, he stated, still allows for a stronger US military presence in Greenland if both nations agree.
The Foreign Minister discussed the historical decline of US military forces in Greenland since the end of World War II. He pointed out that the current US military presence is limited to the Pituffik Space Base, where only about 200 US soldiers are stationed. Rasmussen suggested that if the US desires an increased military presence on the island, Denmark would be open to further discussions.
He also pointed to Denmark’s recent efforts to enhance Arctic defense capabilities as evidence of the nation’s dedication to regional security. In January, Denmark allocated a significant budget of 14.6 billion kroner (€1.9 billion) for investments in new ships, drones, and satellites, all intended to bolster Arctic defense. This funding demonstrates Denmark’s ongoing commitment to the region’s security, countering claims that it has neglected its responsibilities.
Vance Accuses Denmark of Failing Greenland
The comments from US Vice President JD Vance, made during his Friday visit to the Pituffik Base, were the source of much of the recent tension. Vance accused Denmark of failing to invest adequately in Greenland’s security, urging Copenhagen to play a more active role in Arctic defense.
While addressing US troops stationed in Greenland, Vance claimed that Denmark had not fulfilled its responsibility to secure Greenland and protect its strategic interests. He went as far as to accuse Denmark of neglecting the needs of both the people and the security of Greenland. Vance’s statements were particularly controversial because they called for the US to assume a greater role in the island’s defense.
Vance also suggested that Greenland should seek greater independence from Denmark and align more closely with the United States. He claimed that the US could provide better protection for Greenland and offer greater economic support than Denmark.
Greenland and Denmark React with Outrage
The remarks made by Vance were met with strong outrage from both Greenland’s parliament and its citizens. Leaders in Greenland quickly rejected the Vice President’s comments, stating that they were out of line and unjustified.
Greenland’s leaders expressed anger over the US’s repeated attempts to influence local politics. They condemned the Trump administration’s past threats to take control of Greenland, which had already sparked significant controversy. The idea of Greenland becoming more closely aligned with the US was seen as a direct challenge to Danish sovereignty over the island.
Danish Leaders Stand Firm in Defending Sovereignty
In response to the criticism from the US, Danish leaders, including Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, defended Denmark’s Arctic policy. Frederiksen emphasized that Denmark is a “good and strong ally” of the United States, and rejected claims that Denmark had neglected its responsibilities in Greenland. She stressed that Denmark has always been committed to the region and will continue to ensure its security through investments and collaborations with the US and other allies.
On Saturday, hundreds of protesters gathered outside the US Embassy in Copenhagen to express their opposition to the pressure the US is placing on Greenland and Denmark’s sovereignty. The demonstrators, many of whom were waving Danish flags and holding signs reading “Back off, USA,” made their feelings clear: they rejected US interference in the region’s politics and wanted to affirm their nation’s independence.
The protests are part of a broader movement in Denmark, which has seen increasing frustration with the Trump administration’s foreign policy approach. While Denmark and the US have maintained a strong relationship historically, this latest incident has highlighted tensions over regional security issues and the Trump administration’s willingness to impose its will on its allies.
The Future of Denmark’s Role in the Arctic
As the US continues to press Denmark on its Arctic defense role, the situation is raising questions about the future of Greenland’s political and military alignment. Greenland is strategically important due to its location in the Arctic, where both military and economic interests are at stake, particularly with regard to resource exploration and geopolitical tensions in the region.
While Denmark has emphasized its commitment to Arctic defense, including significant investments in military capabilities, the growing pressure from the US could push Denmark to reassess its defense strategy in the region. At the same time, the rhetoric from the Trump administration could further fuel calls for Greenland to seek greater independence and sovereignty, a move that could fundamentally alter the relationship between Denmark, Greenland, and the US.
The public exchange between Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen and US Vice President JD Vance has sparked a heated debate about Denmark’s role in Arctic defense and the future of its relationship with the United States. While Denmark remains steadfast in its commitment to the region and its strategic partnership with the US, the pressure from the Trump administration could have long-lasting effects on the political dynamics of the Arctic.