Greenland has accused the Trump administration of aggressive behaviour following visits by senior U.S. officials to the autonomous Danish territory. The visits come after President Donald Trump’s repeated threats to annexe Greenland, claiming it is vital for international security.
Trump’s national security adviser, Mike Waltz, and U.S. energy secretary, Chris Wright, are visiting Greenland this week. Second Lady Usha Vance is also scheduled to visit from Thursday to Saturday, accompanied by her son.
The White House said Vance will “visit historical sites, learn about Greenlandic heritage, and attend the Avannaata Qimussersu, Greenland’s national dogsled race.”
Greenland’s Prime Minister Mute B. Egede expressed frustration over the visits. Speaking to a local Greenland newspaper, Egede said, “What is the national security adviser doing in Greenland? The only purpose is to demonstrate power over us.”
Historical Context and Ongoing Tensions
Trump’s threats to annex Greenland have reignited tensions between the U.S., Denmark, and Greenland. Trump has asserted, “We need that for international security, not just national security.”
He also questioned Denmark’s claim to Greenland, saying, “A boat landed there 200 years ago or something. And they say they have rights to it. I don’t know if that’s true.”
Greenland has a longstanding defence agreement with the U.S., allowing American military operations at Ptiuffik Space Base, formerly Thule Air Base.
The U.S. previously attempted to purchase Greenland after World War II, but Denmark declined the offer. Both Danish and Greenlandic governments have reiterated that Greenland is not for sale.
The visits by U.S. officials have heightened pressure from the Trump administration. Egede reasoned, “His presence in Greenland alone will certainly make the Americans believe in Trump’s mission, and the pressure will increase after the visit.”
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