Denmark's foreign minister has slammed the Trump administration for its “style” of criticism of Denmark and Greenland, stressing that his country is already making significant investments in Arctic security and remains open to deeper cooperation with the United States.
Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen made the announcement in a video posted on social media following US Vice President J.D. Vance's visit to the strategically important island.
“There have been many accusations and allegations. And of course we are open to criticism,” Mr Rasmussen said, speaking in English.
“But let me be quite frank: we do not welcome the tone in which this is expressed. This is not the way to communicate with close allies.
“And I still consider Denmark and the United States close partners.”
On Friday, Mr Vance said Denmark had “underinvested” in Greenland's security and called for a change in approach as President Donald Trump seeks to annex the Danish territory.
Mr Vance visited US troops at the Pituffik space base in mineral-rich Greenland with his wife and other high-profile US officials. The trip was eventually cut short after outrage from Greenlanders and Danes who had not been consulted about the original itinerary.
“Our message to Denmark is very clear: you are not living up to your commitments to the people of Greenland,” Mr. Vance said on Friday.
“You are not investing adequately in the well-being of the people of Greenland and you are not paying attention to the security architecture of this amazing, beautiful land inhabited by wonderful people.
“This needs to change.”
Mr Vance said the US had “no choice” but to take a proactive stance to ensure Greenland's security, urging Greenland to seek independence from Denmark.
“I'm confident that they will ultimately find cooperation with the United States,” Mr. Vance added.
“We could provide them with much greater security.
“We could provide broader protection.
“And I believe they will also feel much better economically.”
Responses from Greenland lawmakers and local residents made that unlikely, as the country has grown angry over the Trump administration's efforts to annex the vast Arctic island.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen rejected Mr Vance's claim that Denmark was not doing enough for Arctic defence, calling her country “a good and reliable ally”.
Meanwhile, Greenlandic politicians agreed on Thursday to form a new government, uniting to counter attempts by
Sourse: breakingnews.ie
