United News of Bangladesh

The Danish foreign minister rebuked the Trump administration on Saturday for its critical stance toward Denmark and Greenland, particularly regarding the tone of its remarks. He emphasised that Denmark is already enhancing its investment in Arctic security and remains open to further collaboration with the United States. Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen conveyed these sentiments in a video shared on social media following U.S. Vice President JD Vance’s visit to Greenland, a strategically significant island. “A great number of accusations and allegations have been made. We are, of course, open to criticism,” Rasmussen said in English. “However, to be completely frank, we do not appreciate the manner in which it is being delivered. This is not the way to address close allies. And I continue to regard Denmark and the United States as close allies.” On Friday, Vance accused Denmark of “underinvesting” in Greenland’s security and urged the country to revise its approach, aligning with President Donald Trump’s push to assert control over the Danish territory. During his visit to Pituffik Space Base—an American military installation in mineral-rich Greenland—Vance was accompanied by his wife and other senior U.S. officials. However, the trip was ultimately scaled back following backlash from Greenlanders and Danes, who had not been consulted on the initial itinerary. “Our message to Denmark is straightforward: You have not served the people of Greenland well,” Vance stated on Friday. “You have underinvested in them, as well as in the security infrastructure of this extraordinary and beautiful land, home to remarkable people. This must change.” On the same day, Trump posted a video on his social media platform, Truth Social, titled “America Stands With Greenland,” featuring archival footage of U.S. troops stationed there during World War II. While in Greenland, Vance asserted that the U.S. has “no choice” but to play a major role in securing the island. He also encouraged a movement toward Greenlandic independence from Denmark. “I believe that in the end, they will choose to align with the United States,” Vance remarked. “We could enhance their security significantly, provide greater protection, and, economically, they would likely benefit far more.” However, the response from Greenland’s parliament members and citizens suggests that such an outcome is improbable. Outrage has erupted over the Trump administration’s efforts to annex the vast Arctic island. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen dismissed Vance’s claim that Denmark is neglecting Arctic defense, asserting that her country remains “a strong and reliable ally.” Greenlandic lawmakers also took action on Thursday, agreeing to form a new government in a united effort to counter Trump’s ambitions. Four out of the five parties elected to Greenland’s parliament earlier this month have joined forces to create a coalition commanding 23 of the legislature’s 31 seats. The next day, Danish King Frederik X expressed his sentiments in a Facebook post, stating, “We are living in a changed reality. There should be no doubt about my love for Greenland and my deep connection with its people.” Meanwhile, in the Danish capital of Copenhagen, hundreds of protesters gathered outside the U.S. Embassy on Saturday, with some holding placards reading, “Back off, USA,” according to Danish broadcaster TV2. Even Greenland’s national dogsled race, Avannaata Qimussersu, which began on Saturday with 37 mushers and 444 dogs, was affected by the diplomatic tensions. Usha Vance, the vice president’s wife, had originally planned to attend the event. However, after her husband decided to accompany the delegation to the military base instead, she opted out, reducing the likelihood of direct interaction with Greenlanders. In his video message, Løkke Rasmussen reminded viewers of the 1951 defense agreement between Denmark and the United States. He noted that since 1945, the American military presence in Greenland has shrunk from thousands of soldiers across 17 bases and installations to roughly 200 personnel stationed at the remote Pituffik Space Base in the northwest. The 1951 agreement “provides ample opportunities for the United States to establish a much stronger military presence in Greenland,” the foreign minister stated. “If that is your desire, let us discuss it.” Løkke Rasmussen further highlighted that Denmark has been increasing its own investment in Arctic defense. In January, the Danish government pledged 14.6 billion Danish kroner (US$2.1 billion) for Arctic security initiatives, which include three new naval vessels, long-range drones, and satellites.