Denmark’s foreign minister has rebuked the Trump administration for its confrontational approach regarding Greenland, emphasizing that Denmark is already increasing Arctic security investments while remaining open to further US cooperation.
In a video posted to social media Saturday, Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen addressed recent criticisms, speaking in English: “Many accusations and many allegations have been made. And of course, we are open to criticism. But let me be completely honest: we do not appreciate the tone in which it is being delivered. This is not how you speak to your close allies. And I still consider Denmark and the United States to be close allies.”
The response followed Vice President JD Vance’s brief visit to the strategic island Friday, where he accused Denmark of neglecting Greenland’s protection and suggested the US would better safeguard the semi-autonomous Danish territory that Trump has expressed interest in acquiring.
“Our message to Denmark is very simple: You have not done a good job by the people of Greenland,” Vance stated. “You have underinvested in the people of Greenland, and you have underinvested in the security architecture of this incredible, beautiful landmass filled with incredible people. That has to change.”
The US has indicated concerns about Russian and Chinese strategic interests in Greenland.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen countered Vance’s assertion about insufficient Arctic defense, calling Denmark “a good and strong ally” and highlighting Danish combat deployments alongside US forces in Iraq and Afghanistan, where Danish troops suffered casualties. “The Vice President’s reference to Denmark is not accurate,” she added.
Vance traveled with his wife Usha, National Security Advisor Mike Waltz and wife, Energy Secretary Chris Wright, Senator Mike Lee, and former Homeland Security Advisor Julia Nesheiwat.
The vice president emphasized that the US must take significant action to ensure Greenland’s security while encouraging independence from Denmark. “I think that they ultimately will partner with the United States,” Vance said. “We could make them much more secure. We could do a lot more protection. And I think they’d fare a lot better economically as well.”
Greenland’s reaction to Trump’s annexation interest has been strongly negative. Greenlandic legislators recently agreed to form a new government coalition, uniting to resist Trump’s overtures. The coalition will hold 23 of 31 seats in parliament.
Incoming Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen stressed the importance of unity: “It is very important that we put aside our disagreements and differences… because only in this way will we be able to cope with the heavy pressure we are exposed to from outside.”
Rasmussen highlighted Denmark’s increased Arctic defense investment, including January’s announcement of 14.6 billion Danish kroner ($2.1bn) commitment for naval vessels, drones, and satellites.
The foreign minister referenced the 1951 US-Denmark defense agreement, noting US military presence in Greenland has decreased from thousands of troops across 17 bases to approximately 200 soldiers at Pituffik Space Base. “The 1951 agreement offers ample opportunity for the United States to have a much stronger military presence in Greenland,” Rasmussen said. “If that is what you wish, then let us discuss it.”
In Copenhagen, hundreds protested outside the US embassy Saturday, with some signs reading “back off, USA,” according to Danish broadcaster TV2.
Trump has asserted that the US needs Greenland for national and international security purposes. When asked about potentially using force, Vance emphasized the administration didn’t believe that “is ever going to be necessary.”
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