In a recent statement, Greenland’s Prime Minister Mute B. Egede expressed strong disapproval of an upcoming visit to the island by a delegation of US officials, including Second Lady Usha Vance. He described the planned visit as “highly aggressive,” marking a significant downturn in relations following President Donald Trump’s controversial proposal to annex the autonomous Danish territory.
Usha Vance, the spouse of US Vice President JD Vance, is scheduled to visit Greenland this week. The purpose of her trip, as stated by the White House, is to witness the island’s national dogsled race and to “celebrate Greenlandic culture and unity.” Additionally, National Security Adviser Mike Waltz is expected to accompany the delegation, raising further concerns among Greenlandic leaders.
In an interview with the Greenlandic newspaper Sermitsiaq, Prime Minister Egede articulated his objections, particularly regarding Waltz’s role in the visit. “What is the national security adviser doing in Greenland? The only purpose is to demonstrate power over us,” Egede stated. He emphasized that Waltz’s presence would likely intensify American perceptions of Trump’s agenda, leading to increased pressure on Greenland.
President Trump’s proposition to annex Greenland has attracted global attention, primarily due to the island’s vast reserves of rare earth minerals essential for high-tech industries. This situation has prompted concerns about Greenland’s future security as the US, Russia, and China compete for influence in the Arctic region. Trump has reiterated his interest in acquiring Greenland through force or economic means, despite firm rejections from both Denmark and Greenland. “I think we’re going to get it one way or the other,” Trump claimed during a recent joint session of Congress.
Prime Minister Egede, who has advocated for Greenland’s independence from Denmark, criticized the US delegation's visit as indicative of American disregard for Greenlandic sovereignty. His political party, IAInuit Ataqatigiit, faced defeat in the recent parliamentary elections, yet he continues to serve as prime minister until a new coalition is established. Jens-Frederik Nielsen, likely to be Greenland’s next leader, echoed Egede’s sentiments, asserting that the timing of the American visit demonstrates a profound lack of respect for Greenland's ongoing political negotiations.
The White House framed Usha Vance’s visit as a cultural mission, noting that she will be accompanied by her son and a US delegation to explore historical sites, learn about Greenlandic heritage, and participate in the Avannaata Qimussersu, the national dogsled race. The statement further expressed excitement about celebrating Greenlandic culture and unity.
Denmark governed Greenland as a colony until 1953, when the island attained greater self-governing powers. In 2009, Greenland gained additional authority over minerals, policing, and judicial matters, although Denmark retains control over security, defense, foreign relations, and monetary policy. Greenland also benefits from Denmark’s memberships in the European Union and NATO.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen responded to the upcoming US visit by emphasizing the importance of mutual respect for sovereignty in US-Greenland relations. While Greenlandic politicians have consistently opposed any annexation efforts, there remains an openness to partnerships with the United States focused on rare earth mining, tourism expansion, and diplomatic ties. A January poll revealed that 85% of Greenlanders do not wish to become part of the US, with nearly half perceiving Trump's interest as a threat.
In January, Donald Trump Jr. sparked controversy with a visit to Greenland, where he remarked, “Greenland is an incredible place, and the people will benefit tremendously if, and when, it becomes part of our nation. We will protect it, and cherish it, from a very vicious outside world. Make Greenland Great Again!”
