In a move that has stirred controversy across the Arctic and beyond, U.S. Vice President JD Vance is set to visit Greenland, a strategically located island that former President Donald Trump has long expressed interest in acquiring. The visit, which includes a stop at the U.S. military base in Pituffik, comes amid heightened tensions with Greenland and Denmark, sparking questions about America’s Arctic ambitions.
A Controversial Visit Amid Political Uncertainty
Vance’s visit was originally planned to include his wife, Usha Vance, and national security adviser Mike Waltz attending a famous dog-sled race—an event neither Greenland nor Denmark had invited them to. However, facing backlash from Greenlandic and Danish officials, the U.S. scaled back the itinerary, dropping the race visit and focusing solely on the military base.
Greenland’s acting Prime Minister Mute Egede criticized the visit as a provocation, particularly since Greenland is in the midst of forming a new government after its March 11 elections. Meanwhile, Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen called the visit “unacceptable,” though Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen later welcomed the revised plan as a step toward de-escalation.
Why Does Trump Want Greenland?
Trump has repeatedly argued that the U.S. should take control of Greenland due to its strategic location and vast natural resources. He insists that securing Greenland is crucial for U.S. national security and global stability, stating, “We need Greenland, and the world needs us to have Greenland.”
While the U.S. already operates a military base in Greenland under a 1951 agreement, Trump’s administration appears to be exploring new ways to expand its influence over the semi-autonomous Danish territory. Some analysts believe this could involve economic pressure, diplomatic maneuvers, and even direct investment in Greenland’s infrastructure.
The Geopolitical Fallout
Experts warn that the ongoing tension over Greenland is playing into the hands of Russia. Andreas Oesthagen, an Arctic security expert, notes that Trump’s aggressive rhetoric is creating discord among NATO allies, ultimately benefiting Russia, which seeks to weaken Western unity in the Arctic.
While a military takeover remains unlikely, the Trump administration’s tactics—ranging from diplomatic pressure to economic incentives—could reshape Greenland’s relationship with both the U.S. and Denmark in the coming years.
What’s Next?
As Vice President Vance arrives in Greenland, the world will be watching closely. Will this visit pave the way for increased U.S. involvement in Greenland’s affairs? Or will it deepen the rift between America and its European allies?
