U.S. President Donald Trump delivers remarks, in the Roosevelt Room at the White House, in Washington, D.C., U.S., March 24, 2025. REUTERS/Carlos Barria
United States Delegation Visits Greenland Amid Renewed Annexation Discussions
On Monday, U.S. President Donald Trump reiterated his interest in Greenland, suggesting that the United States could consider acquiring the territory in the future. His comments follow a planned visit by a high-profile U.S. delegation, which has been met with criticism from Greenlandic political leaders.
U.S. President’s Statement on Greenland
Speaking to reporters after a Cabinet meeting, President Trump emphasized Greenland’s strategic significance for U.S. national security, stating, “I think Greenland is going to be something that maybe is in our future.” He further claimed that certain individuals in Greenland had reached out to the United States to discuss potential collaboration, though he did not specify who these individuals were.
Greenlandic and Danish Response
Greenland’s outgoing Prime Minister, Mute Egede, denounced the timing and nature of the U.S. delegation’s visit, referring to it as a “provocation.” He further stated that his caretaker government would not engage with the delegation during their stay. Egede expressed concerns over changing dynamics in U.S.-Greenland relations, stating, “Until recently, we could trust the Americans, who were our allies and friends, and with whom we enjoyed working closely. But that time is over.”
Jens-Frederik Nielsen, leader of the pro-business Democrats party, which won Greenland’s March 11 parliamentary elections, also expressed concern over the visit. He emphasized the need for political unity during ongoing coalition negotiations and municipal elections, cautioning against being drawn into geopolitical conflicts.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen reaffirmed Denmark’s position, stressing that any discussions concerning Greenland’s future must be conducted in accordance with principles of sovereignty and with the involvement of both the Danish and Greenlandic governments.
Purpose and Itinerary of the U.S. Delegation’s Visit
The U.S. visit, scheduled from Thursday to Saturday, will be led by Usha Vance, wife of Vice President JD Vance, and will include White House National Security Adviser Mike Waltz and Energy Secretary Chris Wright. The delegation is expected to visit the U.S. military installation at Pituffik Space Base, which plays a crucial role in North American ballistic missile defense. Additionally, they will attend a national dog sled race and visit historical sites in Greenland.
White House National Security Council spokesperson Brian Hughes stated that the visit aims to foster partnerships with Greenland while respecting its right to self-determination and advancing economic cooperation. He described the trip as an opportunity for the delegation to learn more about Greenland’s culture, history, and people.
Security Measures
The visit is being accompanied by heightened security measures. On Sunday, two U.S. Hercules military transport planes arrived in Greenland’s capital, Nuuk, carrying security personnel and bulletproof vehicles, according to local media reports. Additionally, approximately 60 Danish police officers have been deployed to Nuuk to assist with security during the visit.
U.S. Position on Greenland’s Strategic Importance
President Trump has previously expressed interest in acquiring Greenland, first raising the possibility in 2019. Since returning to office in January, he has renewed his calls for U.S. control over the island. Greenland is known for its vast natural resources, including minerals essential for emerging technologies.
Despite the United States’ continued interest in Greenland, both the Danish and Greenlandic governments have firmly rejected any notion of U.S. annexation. While Denmark remains committed to cooperation with the United States, Prime Minister Frederiksen underscored that such collaboration must be based on respect for national sovereignty and existing diplomatic frameworks.
COMMENTS