Greenland Politicians Reject U.S. Visits Amidst Tensions Over Sovereignty

With rising tensions following President Trump's statements about Greenland, local politicians have labeled planned visits by Second Lady Usha Vance and National Security Adviser Mike Waltz as aggressive provocations, emphasizing the need for respect regarding the island's self-determination.

Greenland's political leaders have voiced strong disapproval of planned high-profile visits by U.S. officials, citing ongoing tensions after President Donald Trump's controversial comments about the island's sovereignty. The Second Lady, Usha Vance, is scheduled to visit this week to celebrate Greenlandic culture, while Trump's National Security Adviser, Mike Waltz, is also reported to be making an upcoming trip.

Outgoing Prime Minister Mute Egede characterized the visits as aggressive and stressed that neither official was invited for discussions pertaining to Greenland's future. Jens-Frederik Nielsen, likely to be the island's next Prime Minister, echoed these sentiments, lambasting the U.S. for showing disrespect towards the local population.

Greenland, located between the Arctic and Atlantic Oceans, has been under Danish control for nearly three centuries. While it manages its domestic affairs, foreign and defense policies are dictated by Copenhagen. The U.S. has maintained a military presence there since World War II, eyeing the island's strategic advantages and its rich deposits of rare earth minerals.

The White House articulated that Usha Vance's visit would involve exploring historical sites and attending the Avannaata Qimussersu, Greenland's national dogsled race, with her delegation intended to celebrate the cultural heritage and unity of the Greenlandic people. However, Waltz's visit has raised eyebrows, with many in Greenland questioning the underlying motives.

Responding to the criticism, U.S. National Security Council spokesman Brian Hughes stated that the U.S. has significant interests in the Arctic, emphasizing that the visits are intended to strengthen partnerships and better understand Greenlandic culture and history. Yet, President Trump's recent remarks, suggesting NATO support for potential U.S. claims over the island, have only escalated concerns among Greenlanders regarding their autonomy.

In the aftermath of these developments, Greenland's major political parties united in condemnation of Trump's "unacceptable behavior" during the election campaign, wherein the Inuit Ataqatigiit party suffered an unexpected defeat to Nielsen's Democratic party—marked by a platform advocating a gradual move towards independence from Denmark.

While a significant majority of Greenlanders voice support for independence from Denmark, polls indicate that most reject the idea of joining the United States, reflecting a strong desire to determine their own future without external interference.