JD Vance says Denmark has 'under invested' in Greenland

US Vice President JD Vance on Friday criticised Denmark for failing to adequately protect Greenland, during a visit to the strategically significant and resource-rich Arctic territory. His remarks, made at the Pituffik Space Base in northwestern Greenland, have been viewed as a provocation by both Copenhagen and Nuuk.
"Denmark has not done enough"

Speaking at a press conference, Vance accused Denmark of under-investing in Greenland and neglecting both its people and its security infrastructure.

"Our message to Denmark is very simple: You have not done a good job by the people of Greenland," he said. "You have under-invested in the people of Greenland and you have under-invested in the security architecture of this incredible, beautiful landmass."

His visit comes amid renewed interest from US President Donald Trump in acquiring Greenland, a proposal that has sparked strong opposition from Danish and Greenlandic officials.

US sees Greenland as key to global security

Trump has emphasised the strategic importance of Greenland for both national and international security. Speaking at the White House on Friday, he argued that securing control over the island is not just about US interests but about maintaining world peace.

"We are not talking about peace for the United States. We are talking about world peace. We are talking about international security," Trump said.

While Trump has not ruled out the use of force to gain control over Greenland, Vance downplayed the possibility of military action.

"We think this makes sense, and because we think the people of Greenland are rational and good, we think we're going to be able to cut a deal, Donald Trump-style," Vance said.

He was accompanied on the visit by his wife, Usha Vance, national security advisor Mike Waltz, energy secretary Chris Wright, Utah senator Mike Lee, and former homeland security advisor Julia Nesheiwat.

Danish leaders condemn visit

The uninvited US visit has been met with sharp criticism from Danish and Greenlandic officials. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen denounced it as "unacceptable pressure" on both Greenland and Denmark, while the European Union has also voiced support for Copenhagen's stance.

A January poll indicated that a majority of Greenlanders oppose any form of US annexation.