US Vice President JD Vance announced that he will join his wife, Usha Vance, on her trip to Greenland this Friday, citing global security concerns. In a video shared Tuesday, Vance stated, “Speaking for President Trump, we want to reinvigorate the security of the people of Greenland because we think it’s important to protecting the security of the entire world.”
Greenland’s strategic importance
Greenland, a self-governing territory of Denmark, holds significant geopolitical value due to its mineral resources and Arctic location. Both China and Russia have shown interest in its waterways and natural resources. President Donald Trump previously suggested that the U.S. should control Greenland, sparking tensions in Europe.
Denmark and Greenland object to visit
The governments of Denmark and Greenland have strongly opposed Vance’s visit. Greenland’s government stated on Facebook that no invitations had been extended, while Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen called the trip “unacceptable pressure.” The timing has been especially controversial as Greenland currently lacks a functioning government.
Shifting the trip’s purpose
Usha Vance had initially planned to visit cultural sites and attend a dog sled race, but her husband’s participation has shifted the focus to military security. He will visit the U.S. Space Force base in northwest Greenland instead. National security adviser Mike Waltz was initially set to join the trip but was removed from the delegation list.
ALSO: Greenland condemns 'provocative' visit by US second lady Usha Vance
Ongoing U.S. territorial ambitions
Trump previously suggested purchasing Greenland, a move firmly rejected by Denmark and its people. His current administration has renewed interest in territorial expansion, expressing desires to add Canada as the 51st state, regain control of the Panama Canal, and potentially oversee Gaza’s reconstruction.
