NewsUS Vice President Vance's controversial call in Greenland

US Vice President Vance's controversial call in Greenland

The Vice President of the United States, J.D. Vance, visited Greenland. During his visit, he criticized Denmark for the alleged "lack of investment" in Greenland's security, calling for closer cooperation with the US. His visit was met with widespread criticism.

Visit of JD Vance to Greenland
Visit of JD Vance to Greenland
Images source: © East News | Jim Watson
Mateusz Dolak

While in Greenland, Vice President J.D. Vance accused Denmark, without justification, of leaving the island vulnerable to potential threats from China and Russia. Vance even urged the people of Greenland to consider cooperating with the US.

The US Vice President suggested that Greenland should aim for self-determination and sever ties with Denmark. "We hope that they choose to partner with the United States because we're the only nation on earth, that will respect their sovereignty and respect their security because their security is very much our security," Vance said.

Vance assured that the US does not plan to use military force but intends to increase investment in the region.

Reactions to the visit

Both Greenland and Denmark criticized Vance's visit. Greenland's Prime Minister described the visit as "disrespectful." King Frederik of Denmark expressed his dissatisfaction on social media: "We live in an altered reality. There should be no doubt that my love for Greenland and my connectedness to the people of Greenland are intact."

Denmark's Prime Minister, Mette Frederiksen, rejected Vance's accusations, reminding everyone that Denmark has increased its defence spending and is prepared to cooperate with the US on international terms. "We are ready - day and night - to cooperate with the Americans. A cooperation that must be based on international rules," Frederiksen said.

The future of Greenland

Since 2009, Greenland has had the right to call an independence referendum, and most political parties favour independence from Denmark. However, US interest in the island raises significant concerns.

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