Danish FM Rebukes Trump Admin’s Criticism of Denmark, Greenland

Rasmussen emphasized Denmark's ongoing commitment to enhancing Arctic security, adding that the country remains open to further collaboration with the United States. In a video shared on social media, the foreign minister voiced his frustration over the U.S. administration’s remarks, especially those made by Vice President JD Vance during his recent visit to Greenland—a strategically important island in the Arctic.

“A great number of accusations have been made,” Rasmussen said in English. “We are, of course, open to constructive criticism, but we do not appreciate the manner in which it is being delivered. This is not how close allies should communicate with each other. Denmark and the United States have been close allies for decades, and I still regard us as such.”

The tension comes after Vice President Vance, during his visit to Greenland’s Pituffik Space Base, accused Denmark of underinvesting in Greenland's security infrastructure and urged the Danish government to reassess its defense strategy in line with President Donald Trump’s longstanding push to assert U.S. influence over the territory.

Vance’s comments included a blunt assessment: “Our message to Denmark is simple—you have not served the people of Greenland well. You have underinvested in both the security of this extraordinary land and its remarkable people. That must change.”

At the same time, Trump posted a video on his Truth Social platform, entitled “America Stands With Greenland,” which featured archival footage of U.S. troops stationed in Greenland during World War II, further emphasizing the strategic importance of the island.

During his visit, Vance declared that the U.S. had no choice but to take a leading role in Greenland’s security. He also suggested that Greenland might eventually pursue independence from Denmark, aligning more closely with the U.S. for greater security and economic benefits. “In the end, I believe they will choose to align with the United States,” Vance remarked. “We could significantly enhance their security and provide better economic prospects.”

However, these comments have sparked backlash from both Greenlandic and Danish officials, who have made it clear that Greenland’s future will not be dictated by external pressure. Greenland's parliament swiftly responded, with all but one party agreeing to form a united coalition to resist the Trump administration’s ambitions. This new coalition commands 23 out of 31 seats in the legislature.

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen also rejected Vance’s claims, reaffirming Denmark’s position as a strong and reliable ally of both Greenland and the United States. “Denmark remains committed to the security of the Arctic,” she said. “We will continue to uphold our obligations as a NATO member and as a partner to the United States.”

In a show of solidarity, Danish King Frederik X expressed his unwavering support for Greenland in a heartfelt message shared on Facebook: “We are living in a changed reality. There should be no doubt about my love for Greenland and my deep connection with its people.”

The diplomatic tensions have also sparked public protests in Copenhagen, where hundreds of demonstrators gathered outside the U.S. Embassy on Saturday. Some held signs reading “Back off, USA,” according to Danish broadcaster TV2.

In Greenland, the protests were felt as well, with the annual Avannaata Qimussersu dogsled race being indirectly affected by the political climate. Usha Vance, the vice president’s wife, had initially planned to attend the event, but following the change in the delegation’s itinerary, she opted out, further cooling relations with Greenlandic citizens.

Foreign Minister Rasmussen concluded his video message by reminding the public of the longstanding defense agreement between Denmark and the United States, signed in 1951. He noted that since 1945, the American military presence in Greenland has shrunk from thousands of troops stationed at 17 bases to only about 200 personnel at the Pituffik Space Base.

“If the United States wishes to increase its military presence in Greenland, the 1951 defense agreement offers ample opportunity,” Rasmussen said. “Let us discuss this in a respectful and collaborative manner.”

Rasmussen also highlighted Denmark’s commitment to Arctic defense, pointing to the Danish government's January pledge of 14.6 billion Danish kroner (approximately $2.1 billion) for new security initiatives in the region. These include the acquisition of three new naval vessels, long-range drones, and satellites to enhance Denmark’s Arctic capabilities.