U.S. eyes Greenland: Vance hints at lucrative offer

"What the president has said is we could give the people of Greenland way more money than [Denmark]," declared U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance in a Friday interview for the American portal Newsmax. Vance also noted that Greenlanders receive about $60,000 (£46,000) per year per person from Denmark.

Vance, speaking about paying Greenlanders, referred to President Donald Trump's words, who previously suggested a similar solution, arguing it on the grounds of U.S. national security. The Vice President emphasised that the United States will defend its interests in Greenland, regardless of the circumstances.

Vance expressed the belief that the residents of Greenland are striving for independence from Denmark. "Once they do that, we can have a conversation about the relationship we'll have with the United States in Greenland," he added.

According to "The Washington Post," the White House is analysing the costs associated with potentially managing Greenland, including expenses on social services. One of the considered options is offering Greenland a more advantageous deal than the one currently in place with Denmark. "We'll pay you more than Denmark does," a source told the newspaper.

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, who is in Greenland, criticised President Trump for territorial claims over the island. She suggested talks with Washington about strengthening security in the Arctic, emphasising that it is not permissible to occupy another country, even in the name of international security.

Greenland, an autonomous territory dependent on Denmark, struggles with demographic and economic issues. The island has a population of 56,000, and the main source of income is fishing. Many young people emigrate to Denmark and other Nordic countries in search of better living conditions.

To remind: J.D. Vance recently visited Greenland. The planned three-day visit was shortened to one day because the American delegation did not receive a warm welcome.