Greenland's Prime Minister Accuses US of Political Interference Over Visits by Usha Vance and Mike Waltz
Greenland's Prime Minister, Múte Egede, has accused the United States of interfering in the island’s political affairs following the announcement of an American delegation’s visit. Egede emphasized the importance of respecting Greenland’s integrity and democracy, stating that the planned visit by Usha Vance, wife of US Vice President JD Vance, alongside National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, "cannot be seen as just a private visit."
Usha Vance is scheduled to travel to Greenland as former President Donald Trump continues to advocate for the annexation of the semiautonomous Danish territory by the US. The visit, set for Thursday, includes a US delegation that will tour historical sites, learn about Greenland’s heritage, and attend the national dogsled race. The delegation is expected to return to the US on March 29.
In addition to Vance, Waltz and Energy Secretary Chris Wright will visit a US military base in Greenland. A US official confirmed the trip, though the White House has not provided a response to inquiries on the matter. Trump has maintained that US annexation of Greenland remains a priority since assuming office for a second term on January 20, stating that it will become part of the US "one way or the other."
Speaking to Greenlandic newspaper Sermitsiaq, Egede expressed concerns over the visit, describing it as "a demonstration of power" aimed at exerting pressure on Greenland. He highlighted Waltz’s close relationship with Trump, suggesting that his presence in Greenland would reinforce American belief in Trump's mission and lead to increased pressure following the visit.
Greenland holds strategic importance due to its location along the shortest route between Europe and North America, making it a key component of the US ballistic missile warning system. Additionally, the territory is rich in mineral resources, which could benefit US interests.
Both the Greenlandic and Danish governments have voiced their opposition to any US annexation efforts. Greenland is currently in a caretaker period following the March 11 general election, in which a party favoring a gradual approach to independence from Denmark secured victory. The Greenlandic government has not responded to requests for comment regarding the visit.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen reacted to the visit by stating that "this is something we take seriously." While Denmark remains open to cooperation with the US, Frederiksen stressed that such collaboration must be based on "the fundamental rules of sovereignty." She added that any discussions with the US concerning Greenland would be conducted in close coordination with both the Danish government and Greenland’s future leadership.
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