Danish Minister Issues Warning as He Slams JD Vance’s ‘Tone’ Following Greenland Visit
A Danish government minister has issued a sharp rebuke of U.S. Senator JD Vance following his recent visit to Greenland, condemning what he described as Vance’s “aggressive and misguided tone” toward Denmark’s sovereignty over the Arctic territory.
Vance, a Republican senator from Ohio and a key ally of former President Donald Trump, visited Greenland as part of a congressional delegation assessing strategic interests in the Arctic. However, his remarks during and after the visit have sparked tensions between the U.S. and Denmark.
In a press conference following Vance’s departure, Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen did not hold back. “We value our strong partnership with the United States, but we cannot accept rhetoric that disregards Denmark’s rightful authority over Greenland,” he said. “Greenland is not up for sale, nor is it a bargaining chip in global politics.”
Vance, who has been vocal about strengthening U.S. influence in the Arctic, reportedly questioned Denmark’s ability to fully develop Greenland’s strategic and economic potential. He suggested that American involvement—possibly even ownership—would be in Greenland’s best interest, echoing a proposal floated by Trump in 2019 to purchase the vast Arctic island.
The Danish minister was quick to dismiss such suggestions. “This kind of talk is not only inappropriate, but it also shows a fundamental misunderstanding of Greenland’s status. It is a self-governing territory under the Kingdom of Denmark, and its future will be decided by its people—not by politicians in Washington.”
Greenland’s Prime Minister, Múte Bourup Egede, also responded to Vance’s comments, reaffirming Greenland’s political autonomy. “We welcome cooperation, but we do not welcome condescension,” he said. “Greenland is not looking for new ownership—we are looking for equal partnerships.”
Vance, for his part, has defended his statements, claiming that his comments were misinterpreted. “The United States has a vested interest in ensuring that Greenland’s vast natural resources and strategic location are not exploited by hostile powers like China and Russia,” he said in a statement. “Denmark should take these concerns seriously rather than reacting emotionally to a frank discussion.”
The dispute underscores growing geopolitical competition in the Arctic, with the U.S., China, and Russia all vying for influence in the region. While Denmark remains a close NATO ally, this latest controversy highlights the sensitivities surrounding Greenland’s future and the potential strains in U.S.-Danish relations.
Despite the tensions, Danish officials have emphasized that the door remains open for continued dialogue. “We are willing to discuss cooperation, but we expect respect in return,” Rasmussen said. “Greenland’s sovereignty is not up for debate.”
As the Arctic’s importance continues to rise, this episode serves as a reminder that diplomacy—rather than aggressive rhetoric—will be key to maintaining stability in the region.
