Greenlandic leaders have criticized an upcoming visit by a prominent American delegation to the semi-autonomous Danish territory, which President Trump has previously suggested the U.S. should annex.
The delegation, led by Usha Vance, the wife of Vice President JD Vance, includes national security adviser Mike Waltz and Energy Secretary Chris Wright. They plan to visit a U.S. military base and attend a dogsled race.
Outgoing Prime Minister Mute Egede described the visit as a "provocation," asserting that his caretaker government would not meet with the delegation. He expressed a shift in trust toward the U.S., stating, "Until recently, we could trust the Americans, who were our allies and friends, and with whom we enjoyed working closely. But that time is over."
The Greenlandic government, known as Naalakkersuisut, is in a caretaker period following the March 11 general election, which was won by the pro-business Democrats, a party advocating for independence from Denmark. Jens-Frederik Nielsen, the party leader, called for political unity and characterized the U.S. delegation's visit as disrespectful, given the ongoing coalition talks and upcoming municipal elections.
The delegation plans to visit the Pituffik space base, which houses the U.S. military in Greenland, and will receive briefings from American service members. They will also engage in cultural activities, including visits to historical sites and participation in the national dogsled race.
White House National Security Council spokesman Brian Hughes stated that the U.S. team sees the visit as an opportunity to strengthen partnerships that respect Greenland's self-determination and promote economic cooperation.
Hughes emphasized that the visit aims to learn about Greenland's culture, history, and people, and to support the dogsled race, which the U.S. sponsors.
Trump has frequently highlighted Greenland's strategic location and abundant mineral resources as beneficial to the U.S., noting its importance in the route from Europe to North America, crucial for the U.S. ballistic missile warning system.
Both the governments of Greenland and Denmark have opposed any annexation. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen responded to the visit by affirming Denmark's commitment to cooperating with the U.S. but emphasized that this cooperation should respect the fundamental rules of sovereignty. She noted that discussions regarding Greenland will occur in close coordination with both the Danish and the incoming Greenlandic governments.