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US Vice-President Predicts Greenland Independence Amid Arctic Security Concerns
America’s Vice-President has asserted that Greenlanders are likely to opt for independence from Denmark. During a brisk visit to a US base in Greenland, the Vice-President delivered a robust speech highlighting growing Russian and Chinese activity in the Arctic region. The remarks come as Arctic security and Greenland’s geopolitical significance are increasingly scrutinized, particularly in light of discussions around potential Greenland independence.
Vance Echoes Trump’s Interest in Greenland Territory
The Vice-President stated that former President Donald Trump was justified in expressing interest in acquiring the territory. Greenland has been under Danish sovereignty for three centuries. However, the Vice-President downplayed speculation of a forceful US military intervention to seize the island.
‘The President has made it clear that military force is not deemed necessary,’ he clarified. He emphasized, ‘However, he firmly believes Greenland is crucial for the security of not only the United States but also global security and, naturally, the people of Greenland.’
Controversial Greenland Visit and Local Protests
The Vice-President’s controversial trip to Greenland, accompanied by his wife, faced disruptions. Plans for an excursion to a traditional dog-sled race were abandoned due to local demonstrations.
He shared a meal with US soldiers at the Pituffik military base, situated in Greenland’s Arctic north and under US control since 1951.
Addressing the troops, he stated, ‘Denmark has not adequately ensured Greenland’s safety. We cannot ignore the increasing interest of China in this landmass.’
Greenlandic Perspectives on US Interest
Some Greenlanders support increased US involvement, believing it will stimulate the local economy.
However, support for closer ties with the US is not universally shared in Greenland, with some individuals reporting negative reactions to pro-US stances.
Many Greenlanders are firm in their position that the country is ‘not for sale’, despite US interest.
Greenland’s Path to Potential Independence
The Vice-President elaborated, ‘We anticipate that Greenlanders will exercise their right to self-determination and choose to become independent from Denmark. Subsequently, we will engage in discussions with the people of Greenland.’
Prior to departing Greenland, he did not detail how Greenland would sustain independence financially, particularly as the new coalition government pursues this long-term objective while currently reliant on substantial Danish subsidies.
Trump Reaffirms US Interest in Greenland for Security Reasons
Speaking at the White House, President Trump reiterated his ambitions, stating, ‘We need Greenland. It is crucial for international security that we have Greenland.’
He added, ‘When you observe the waterways, Chinese and Russian vessels are prevalent. We are not depending on Denmark or any other nation to manage this situation.’
Growing Opposition in Greenland
In Nuuk, Greenland’s capital, resistance to President Trump’s annexation proposals is intensifying. Meanwhile, those who favor closer ties with America are facing increasing hostility.
One prominent Greenlandic supporter of US involvement recounted experiencing backlash: ‘I’ve been assaulted in a bar and received death threats.’ Police are reportedly investigating these incidents.
One threat, delivered via social media, included a starkly local element: ‘There will come a time when I will feed you to the polar bears,’ the individual was warned.
Vice-President Vance’s visit to the US base in Greenland focused on concerns regarding Russian and Chinese activities in the Arctic.
Vance dined with soldiers at Pituffik Space Base, following adjustments to his itinerary due to limited interest in meetings with the Vice-President or his wife.
Weeks prior to Vance’s arrival, Greenlanders staged protests with banners reading ‘Yankee go home’.
Protesters modified hats resembling Trump’s ‘Make America Great Again’ hats to read ‘Make America Go Away’.
‘Greenland is for the Greenlanders’ was a common chant during demonstrations in March.
A reporter covering the unfolding situation in Nuuk, Greenland, prior to Vice-President Vance’s visit.
Diplomatic Tensions and Visit Adjustments
The political climate has been escalating throughout the week. What was initially characterized as a ‘soft-power’ trip by the Vice-President’s wife and son evolved into a diplomatic dispute.
The inclusion of US national security adviser Mike Waltz, who was not formally invited, alongside Mrs. Vance, was deemed ‘unacceptable’ by Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen.
Ultimately, both Mr. Waltz and the Vice-President joined Mrs. Vance, but the planned visit to the Avannaata Qimussersu dog-sled race was cancelled.
This cancellation followed concerns about demonstrations at the race venue, situated at the military base of strategic importance as America’s closest point to Russia in its anti-missile defense system, as well as at the small airport in Nuuk.
Public Demonstrations Against US Influence
Two weeks prior, Greenland witnessed its largest demonstration at the gates of the US consulate.
Approximately 2,500 individuals, from an island population of 57,000 (with 18,000 residing in the capital), assembled to voice their opposition to a potential US takeover. Organizers had initially anticipated a turnout of just a few hundred protesters.
The demonstrators, predominantly indigenous Inuit, chanted, ‘Greenland is the Greenlanders’ land,’ while displaying signs declaring ‘Greenland is not for sale.’
At the consulate, protesters planted Greenlandic flags in the snow. Door-to-door surveys, reportedly commissioned by the US to evaluate Greenlandic sentiment towards a takeover, yielded a similar message: ‘Nok er nok’ – Danish for ‘enough is enough.’ The sentiment was that President Trump should cease pursuing the matter.
Around 2,500 people in Nuuk protested against the prospect of a US takeover.
Vance’s visit included his wife, Second Lady Usha Vance.
Vance addressing personnel at Pituffik Space Base in Greenland during his visit.
Snow-dusted colorful houses in Nuuk, Greenland’s capital city.
Sunrise over Nuuk ahead of Vice-President Vance’s anticipated visit to the Space Base.
Escalating Geopolitical Tensions in the Arctic
Despite the widespread opposition, the US President has not retreated from his assertion that America will acquire Greenland, including its potentially valuable mineral resources, ‘one way or another’.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has further increased tensions by announcing an increase in troop numbers near the North Pole, suggesting the possibility of an Arctic conflict. ‘We are observing serious intentions from the American side regarding Greenland,’ he stated.
Putin continued, ‘NATO nations are increasingly viewing the Far North as a staging ground for potential conflicts. The Arctic’s significance is growing for both Russia and the entire world. Competition in this region is intensifying.’
Greenlanders Express Concerns over Potential Conflict
This assertive rhetoric is causing unease. A taxi driver in Nuuk expressed his concerns: ‘This week, I’ve been questioning if America will take us over by military force. Are fighter jets and warships going to suddenly appear here? These are the thoughts we are having.’
While critical of Denmark’s long period of influence, the driver acknowledged Greenland’s increasing autonomy since home rule was granted in 1979. Denmark currently manages foreign policy and provides a substantial annual subsidy.
Historical Grievances and Concerns About Recolonization
A campaigner highlighted historical injustices under Danish rule, including instances of forced contraception among Inuit women and economic exploitation from mining operations. Nevertheless, she insisted, ‘We do not want to be colonized a second time, this time by America.’
Her mother added, ‘I am not ashamed that we did not extend a traditional Greenlandic welcome to the Vances. Trump is threatening a takeover—we must resist.’
As Vice-President Vance departed, a taxi driver offered a parting remark: ‘I wish he’d been eaten by polar bears.’