US President Donald Trump says the United States needs to take over Greenland for “world peace.”
“We’re not talking about US peace. We’re talking about world peace. We’re talking about international security,” Trump told White House reporters.
Vice President J.D. Vice President J.D. Vance, his wife and other US officials were reduced in a trip that was plagued with planned plans without consulting them after visiting a US military base in Greenland on Friday and fussing between the Greenlanders and the Danes.
Shortly after arriving, Vance briefly addressed the US troops stationed at the base as he and his wife sat down for lunch with them.
“Our discussion is not the people of Greenland. I think Greenlanders have incredibly incredible opportunities. Our discussion is about Danish leadership, which is invested in Greenland and not invested in security architecture.” “It just has to change. It’s the policy of the US that changes.”
The revised trip to Danish semi-autonomous territory occurs when the US’s relationship with Nordic countries becomes sour sour after repeatedly suggesting that the US should somehow control a Denmark-controlled mineral-rich territory.
A one-day visit to the US Space Force’s front post base in Pitafik, on Greenland’s northwest coast, Friday eliminated the risk of violating diplomatic practices by sending delegations to another country without an official invitation. It also reduced the chances that Vance and his wife would cross paths with residents who are angry at Trump’s announcement.
His delegations included National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, Energy Secretary Chris Wright, and Second Lady Usha Vance.
Al Jazeera correspondent Rory Charlans says Vance’s message was intended to cax residents of the island far from Denmark by suggesting it would provide more to partnerships with the US.
“I think what Vance was trying to do was very clear. His strategy was clear. He is trying to drive the wedge between Greenland and Denmark,” reported Nouk in Greenland. “He was very critical of the Danes and basically said they ignored Greenland’s safety.”
“We have to stick together.”
Before Vance arrived, four of the five political parties elected to Greenland Parliament earlier this month signed an agreement to form a new, broad coalition government. Political parties united in the face of Trump’s design on the territory.
“It’s a time when we’re under pressure as a population,” said Jens Frederick Nielsen, the prime minister’s deputy signer, before the agreement was signed to applause and cheers in the prime minister’s capital, Nuuk.
He added, “We have to stick together. Together we are the strongest.”
In an Instagram post, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen congratulated Nielsen and his incoming government, saying, “We look forward to working closely together during an unnecessary, conflict-filled time.”
Fredericksen said Tuesday that a visit to the US, which was originally set for three days, created “unacceptable pressure.” She says Denmark wants to work with the US in defense and security, but Greenland belongs to the Greenlanders.
Initially, Usha Vance had announced a solo trip to Sisimiut’s Avannaata Qimussusu Dogsled Race. Her husband then said he would join her on the trip to change the itinerary again after protests from Greenland and Denmark.
Nevertheless, in an interview on Wednesday, Trump reiterated his desire for Greenland control. When asked if the people there were “eager” to become American citizens, Trump said he didn’t know.
“A little crazy.”
Nuuk residents, about 1,500 km (930 miles) south of Pituffik, expressed concern about Vance’s visit and US interest in their island.
Kora Huy, 22, said Vance was “welcome if he wanted to see it, but of course, Greenland isn’t on sale.” She added, “It’s not normal around here” with all the attention Greenland is getting. “I feel that every day is about (Trump) right now. I just want to get away from it.”
“It’s all a bit crazy. Of course, the population here has been shaken a bit,” said 30-year-old Inuk Christensen. “My opinion is the same as everyone else’s. Of course you don’t do things like this. You’re not just coming here and saying you want to buy the place.”
As a gateway to the Arctic and North Atlantic voyages approach North America, Greenland has broader strategic value as both China and Russia seek access to waterways and natural resources.
During his first term, Trump came to the idea of buying the world’s largest island, despite Denmark claiming it was not for sale. Greenlanders also firmly rejected Trump’s plan.
Vance has repeatedly criticised longtime European allies for his reliance on military support from the US, and is openly opposed to his partners in ways that have generated concerns about US credibility.
