Vice President JD (at right), seated next to second lady Usha Vance, eats at a table with soldiers at the U.S. military’s Pituffik Space Base on March 28 in Pituffik, Greenland.
Jim Watson/Pool/Getty Images)
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Jim Watson/Pool/Getty Images)
Vice President JD Vance arrived at a U.S. military base in Greenland on Friday, sparking speculation about U.S. intentions towards the Danish territory.
“The president is deeply interested in Arctic security, and this interest is expected to grow in the coming years,” Vance stated to U.S. troops at Pituffik Space Base.
Vance’s visit to the Danish territory included the second lady, Usha Vance, National Security Adviser Michael Waltz, Energy Secretary Chris Wright, and other officials.
The trip was scaled back after criticism from Greenland and Denmark leaders for lack of prior notification. The original plan for the second lady to visit the capital city, Nuuk, for a cultural tour and dogsled race was canceled.
President Trump’s interest in acquiring Greenland has been repeatedly expressed.
“There is real interest in Greenland because they have been somewhat neglected and not well taken care of. I believe Greenland could play a significant role in the future,” Trump stated to reporters. Vance emphasized the Trump administration’s aim to enhance security in the region due to threats from other countries using Greenland’s territories and waterways against the U.S.
Despite polls showing most Greenlanders oppose U.S. ownership, the idea has led to large protests on the island, with residents expressing their disapproval with signs and caps. Both Greenland and Denmark have made it clear that Greenland is not for sale.
This article will be continuously updated.
