The Danish Foreign Minister has criticized the tone used by the US in criticizing Denmark’s role in Greenland, stating that his country is already investing more in Arctic security and remains open to further cooperation with the US. Lars Lokke Rasmussen made these comments after US Vice President JD Vance’s visit to the strategic island, which took place recently.

Rasmussen acknowledged that Denmark can be open to criticism but also stated that the country does not appreciate the tone in which it is delivered. The Minister emphasized that this is not the way to speak to close allies, stating that Denmark and the US are still considered close allies.

Vance had accused Denmark of failing to keep Greenland properly protected during his visit, projecting that the US would be better able to provide security for the semi-autonomous Danish territory, which Trump has shown interest in acquiring. Vance also suggested that both Russia and China have strategic designs on Greenland.

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen also responded to Vance’s claim that Denmark is not doing enough for defense in the Arctic, describing her country as a good and strong ally. She referred to Danish combat deployments alongside US troops in Iraq and Afghanistan, where dozens of Danes were killed.

Vance was accompanied by his wife, National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, Utah Senator Mike Lee, and former Homeland Security Advisor Julia Nesheiwat, who is Waltz’s wife.

In Greenland, members of Greenland’s parliament and its residents have vehemently reacted to Trump’s push for annexation. Greenlandic legislators formed a new government, coming together to resist Trump’s overtures. Incoming Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen emphasized the need for unity in order to cope with external pressure.

The Danish Foreign Minister also highlighted Denmark’s own investment in Arctic defense, mentioning a financial commitment of 14.6 billion Danish kroner in January for Arctic security. He stated that Denmark has already fulfilled the 1951 US-Denmark defense agreement and is open to further discussion on a stronger military presence in Greenland if desired.

Meanwhile, hundreds of protesters demonstrated outside the US embassy in Copenhagen, holding signs urging the US to “back off.” Trump has argued that annexation of Greenland is necessary for US and international security, but Vance stated that the use of force is not seen as a necessary measure by the US administration.

Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/3/29/not-how-you-talk-to-allies-danish-fm-tells-the-us-over-greenland?traffic_source=rss