Greenland Politicians Rebel Against US Official Visits Amid Tensions

Greenland's politicians have expressed strong opposition to planned visits by U.S. officials Usha Vance and National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, in light of President Trump's controversial remarks about the island's sovereignty.

Greenland's political landscape has erupted in outrage over upcoming visits by key U.S. figures, including Second Lady Usha Vance and National Security Adviser Mike Waltz. This backlash follows President Donald Trump's earlier threats to take control of the island, which has been under Danish control for nearly three centuries. The U.S. has maintained a military presence in Greenland since World War Two, and Trump's interest in the island's rare earth minerals has further inflamed tensions.

Outgoing Prime Minister Mute Egede characterized the visits as aggressive and claimed neither Vance nor Waltz were invited. Putative next leader Jens-Frederik Nielsen echoed these sentiments, highlighting a significant breach of respect toward Greenland's autonomy.

Vance's visit, aimed at celebrating Greenlandic culture, will include participation in significant events like the national dogsled race. Meanwhile, Waltz's forthcoming itinerary remains uncertain but is anticipated to signal U.S. interests in the face of global security concerns, further unsettling Greenlandic officials.

As the situation escalated, Trump explicitly suggested in a recent conversation with a NATO ally that acquiring Greenland was in the realm of possibility for security reasons. Trump's provocative language has led to a united front among Greenland's political parties, condemning what they perceive as imperialistic behavior aimed at undermining their sovereignty.

In Congress, Trump has claimed to support Greenland’s right to self-determination, inviting them to join the United States if they choose. Recent polls show a notable desire for independence from Denmark among Greenland's citizens, underscoring a local rejection of becoming a U.S. territory.