NUUK, Greenland (AP) — The Danish foreign minister reprimanded the Trump administration on Saturday for its “tone” when addressing Denmark and Greenland, stating that Denmark is already increasing its investments in Arctic security while remaining open to further collaboration with the U.S.
Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen made these comments in a video shared on social media following U.S. Vice President JD Vance’s visit to the strategic island.
“There have been numerous accusations and claims made. Of course, we welcome constructive criticism,” said Rasmussen in English. “However, let me be completely frank: we find the tone in which it is delivered to be unappreciated. This is not how one communicates with close allies. I still regard Denmark and the United States as close allies.”
On Friday, Vance criticized Denmark for having “underinvested” in Greenland’s security, calling for a change in approach as President Donald Trump seeks to acquire the Danish territory.
Vance visited U.S. troops at Pituffik Space Base in mineral-rich Greenland, accompanied by his wife and other senior U.S. officials, during a trip that was ultimately reduced in scope following outcry from Greenlanders and Danes who were not involved in the planning of the original itinerary.
“Our message to Denmark is quite straightforward: You have fallen short in your responsibilities to the people of Greenland,” Vance stated on Friday. “There has been insufficient investment in the Greenlandic people, as well as in the security framework of this remarkable and beautiful land filled with incredible individuals. This must change.”
Vance asserted that the U.S. has “no choice” but to take on a significant role to ensure Greenland’s security while also advocating for a push towards independence for Greenland from Denmark.
“I believe that in the end, they will partner with the United States,” Vance noted. “We could significantly enhance their security. We could provide much more protection. And I think their economic situation would improve as well.”
The response from Greenland’s parliament members and residents has made this scenario unlikely, as widespread anger has arisen regarding the Trump administration’s attempts to annex the vast Arctic island. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen countered Vance’s assertion that Denmark is not doing enough for Arctic defense, affirming her country’s position as “a good and strong ally.”
Additionally, Greenlandic lawmakers on Thursday agreed to form a new government, uniting to resist Trump’s advances. Four out of the five parties elected to Greenland’s parliament earlier this month have agreed to constitute a coalition that will hold 23 out of 31 seats in the legislature.
Løkke Rasmussen, in his video, reminded viewers of the 1951 defense agreement between Denmark and the United States. He stated that since 1945, the American military presence in Greenland has diminished from thousands of soldiers across 17 bases and installations on the island to just the remote Pituffik Space Base in the northwest, which now houses about 200 soldiers.
The 1951 agreement “provides ample opportunities for the United States to establish a much stronger military presence in Greenland,” the foreign minister stated. “If that is your desire, then we should discuss it.”
Løkke Rasmussen further added that Denmark is ramping up its own investments in Arctic defense. In January, Denmark revealed financial commitments totaling 14.6 billion Danish kroner (approximately US$2.1 billion) for Arctic security, which includes three new naval vessels, long-range drones, and satellites.
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Grieshaber reported from Berlin, and Madhani from Washington. Associated Press writer Stefanie Dazio in Berlin contributed to this report.
