US Delegation’s Visit to Greenland Sparks Criticism from Local Leaders
Copenhagen: Greenlandic leaders have voiced strong opposition to an upcoming visit by a high-profile US delegation, which includes White House National Security Adviser Mike Waltz and Energy Secretary Chris Wright. The delegation, led by Usha Vance, wife of Vice President JD Vance, is set to tour a US military base and attend a dogsled race in Greenland, a semi-autonomous Danish territory.
The visit comes amid renewed interest from former US President Donald Trump, who reiterated his stance on the possible annexation of Greenland. Speaking to reporters on Monday, Trump stated, “I think Greenland is going to be something that maybe is in our future,” suggesting that his administration had been engaging with Greenlandic representatives.
Greenland’s outgoing Prime Minister Mute Egede condemned the visit, calling it a “provocation.” He emphasized that the caretaker government, in place following the March 11 parliamentary elections, would not engage with the US delegation. “Until recently, we could trust the Americans, but that time is over,” Egede told local newspaper Sermitsiaq.
Jens-Frederik Nielsen, leader of the Democrats, the party that won the recent elections, also criticized the visit’s timing, especially as coalition negotiations and upcoming municipal elections are ongoing. He urged political unity, stating, “We must not be forced into a power game that we ourselves have not chosen to be a part of.”
Key Points:
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A US delegation, led by Usha Vance and including senior officials, is set to visit Greenland.
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Former US President Donald Trump reiterated his interest in annexing Greenland.
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Outgoing Prime Minister Mute Egede called the visit a “provocation” and refused to meet the delegation.
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Jens-Frederik Nielsen criticized the visit’s timing, warning against external influence amid coalition talks.
The planned US visit has heightened tensions between Greenland and the United States, particularly given past discussions about potential annexation. Greenlandic leaders view the delegation’s presence as an unwelcome interference, emphasizing their commitment to political autonomy. With ongoing coalition negotiations and upcoming municipal elections, the visit may further complicate Greenland’s political landscape.
