U.S. vows to shield Greenland against Russian and Chinese threats
During a conference at the U.S. military space base in Pituffik, Vice President J.D. Vance emphasized that the United States aims to shield Greenland from the influence of Russia and China. He warned that without self-determination, and if Greenland’s future were to fall under the control of the Chinese Communist Party, it would not benefit the local population and would significantly undermine both U.S. and global security.
During his visit to the U.S. space base in Pituffik, Greenland, on Friday, U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance delivered a pointed message to Denmark, criticizing its handling of Greenland. He claimed that Denmark has failed to manage the island effectively and has failed to invest adequately in its security infrastructure.
Speaking at the press conference, Vance urged a shift in awareness, stating that it's time to face the reality of Greenland's strategic importance. He warned against ignoring China's growing interest in the island, accusing Beijing of attempting to entangle Greenland in debt to access its natural resources—resources that, he noted, hold significant military value.
He assured that the United States can fully counter any nation attempting to exert influence in the region. He also noted that a substantial military presence is already in place, and plans are underway to increase troop deployment further.
Vance explains Trump's words
One of the journalists present at the conference directly asked Vance, whether the United States seriously intends to take over Greenland?
Vance highlighted the president’s statement about securing Greenland, stressing the importance of taking the island’s security more seriously. He emphasized that while the president's intentions shouldn't be dismissed, Russia and China's growing activities in the region are an even more pressing concern.
"It would be better if they came under our security umbrella"
The vice president affirmed that the United States respects the self-determination of the people of Greenland but argued it would be more beneficial for them to come under American protection rather than relying on Denmark. He went on to criticize Denmark’s security approach, suggesting it is based on the assumption that the United States will ultimately shoulder the costs.
He clarified that when Trump spoke about the U.S. needing to take control of Greenland, the underlying message was about ensuring the island’s security. He noted that several countries have shown interest in Greenland. He emphasized that the United States is committed to protecting its residents' safety and safeguarding its national security interests.
Vance expressed hope that the people of Greenland would choose the United States as their partner, emphasizing that the U.S. is the only country genuinely committed to respecting both their sovereignty and their security, stressing that Greenland’s safety is directly linked to that of the United States.
