Diplomatic tensions rise as Denmark opposes US visit to Greenland
The Danish Prime Minister, Mette Frederiksen, expressed strong disapproval regarding the intended visit of an American delegation to Greenland. Among the US visitors set to appear in Nuuk, the capital, and in Sisimiut are the wife of Vice President J.D. Vance, National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, and Energy Secretary Chris Wright.
- The Danish Prime Minister, Mette Frederiksen, voiced her opposition to the planned visit of an American delegation to Greenland. She described it as a form of "unacceptable pressure."
- The visit will include the Second Lady of the USA, Usha Vance, National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, and Energy Secretary Chris Wright.
- Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark, currently lacks a government following recent elections, which further complicates matters.
Why is Denmark opposing the USA visit?
Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen expressed dissatisfaction with the visit of US representatives to Greenland. According to Politico, Frederiksen believes that this visit does not align with the needs or desires of Greenland. "This is clearly not a visit that is about what Greenland needs or wants," said the Prime Minister.
Frederiksen pointed out that Greenland currently does not have a government, which makes the visit even more problematic. "You cannot make a private visit with official representatives from another country," she added.
What are the consequences for Denmark-US relations?
The criticism from the Danish Prime Minister is the latest in a series of sharp comments concerning the Trump administration since the US President renewed his interest in Greenland. Trump previously suggested the possibility of acquiring the island, which was met not only with protest from the residents of Greenland but also with international disapproval.
Frederiksen stated that Denmark will "stand against" all forms of pressure from the USA. "It’s a pressure we will stand against," she emphasised.
What next for the USA's plans regarding Greenland?
According to Politico, Donald Trump does not rule out the use of military or economic force to take control of Greenland, which he views as an "absolute necessity" for US national security. In the context of these plans, the visit by the American delegation may be seen as another step towards pursuing these intentions.
As reported by "Politico," Greenland, with its abundant mineral resources and strategic position in the Arctic, remains a focal point of interest for the USA.
