U.S.-Danish Relations Strain Further Over Trump Administration’s Greenland Push

Vice President JD Vance’s visit to Greenland escalates tensions, as Denmark and Greenland reject U.S. criticism and annexation rhetoric.

Vice President JD Vance visited Greenland’s Pituffik Space Base on March 28, reiterating the U.S. stance on Greenland’s strategic importance and advocating for its independence from Denmark.
Vance criticized Denmark’s governance of Greenland, accusing Copenhagen of underinvestment in the territory’s development and security, prompting sharp rebukes from Danish officials.
Greenland’s newly formed coalition government, comprising four political parties, has united to oppose U.S. annexation efforts and reaffirm its sovereignty under Denmark.
Denmark’s Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen condemned the tone of U.S. remarks, emphasizing that allies should communicate respectfully, while highlighting Denmark’s $2.1 billion Arctic defense investment.
Protests erupted in both Greenland and Denmark against the U.S. delegation, with polls showing 85% of Greenlanders opposing any form of U.S. takeover.