The US Vice President, J.D. Vance, and his wife, Usha Vance, are greeted upon their arrival at Munich International Airport in southern Germany on February 13, 2025. Photo credit: Tobias Schwarz – AFP via Getty Images
President Donald Trump is intensifying efforts to integrate Greenland into the United States, despite Greenlandic leaders emphasizing their lack of interest and Denmark’s stance that the territory is not for sale. This week, the Administration is planning to dispatch three members of Trump’s close circle to visit the island: Second Lady Usha Vance, National Security Adviser Michael Waltz, and Energy Secretary Chris Wright. The visit is perceived by Greenland officials as a step up in the Trump Administration’s persistent endeavor to establish dominance over Greenland, a semi-autonomous region of Denmark.
In a video posted on Instagram last Sunday, the Second Lady expressed her anticipation for the upcoming trip to Greenland with one of her sons, highlighting the history of mutual respect and collaboration between the nations and expressing optimism for strengthening the relationship in the future.
Greenland’s outgoing Prime Minister, Múte Bourup Egede, denounced the planned visit as “highly aggressive” and accused the Trump Administration of using diplomatic engagements as a guise to achieve their ultimate objective: bringing Greenland under U.S. control. Egede stated to the Greenlandic newspaper Sermitsiaq that despite Greenlanders’ diplomatic efforts, Trump and his Administration remain steadfast in their pursuit to own and govern Greenland.
The White House confirmed that Usha Vance is slated to participate in Greenland’s national dog-sled race and visit significant cultural sites during her stay.
As concerns mount over the visit, the delegation’s timing is creating additional unease. Greenland recently concluded a contentious parliamentary election and is currently in the process of forming a new government while considering potential pathways to increased autonomy from Denmark, a NATO ally of the United States.
The Trump Administration’s forthcoming visit to Greenland and the President’s objectives for the island are discussed in this article.
Reasons for Trump’s Interest in Greenland
Greenland, a semi-autonomous territory under Danish sovereignty, has long been considered a strategic asset in the Arctic region. It is home to the U.S. Pituffik Space Base, which provides missile warning and space surveillance capabilities, and is strategically positioned along crucial air and sea routes in the North Atlantic, offering advantages for shipping and trade.
The Trump Administration has framed the potential acquisition of Greenland as a matter of national security, contending that American control would counter the rising influence of Russia and China in the Arctic. During a recent address to Congress, Trump emphasized the necessity of Greenland for national and international security, declaring his determination to secure it by any means necessary.
However, security concerns are not the sole driver behind Trump’s interest. Greenland boasts extensive reserves of rare-earth minerals crucial for advanced technologies, including components for electric vehicle batteries, medical imaging devices, and military applications. It
In January, there was a push to acquire Greenland by former President Trump, who referred to it as a deal that “must happen” and advocated for making Greenland great again. Alongside this effort, there were also mentions of making Canada the 51st state and reclaiming control of the Panama Canal. Despite opposition from officials in Denmark and Greenland, U.S. officials have increased their rhetoric. Vice President J.D. Vance criticized Denmark on Fox News, suggesting that if necessary, the U.S. may need to show more interest in Greenland for national security purposes.
The decision to include Usha Vance in the delegation raised eyebrows, with some speculating it was a move towards soft power diplomacy. The White House clarified that her visit was aimed at cultural exchange. However, Greenlandic leaders remained skeptical, viewing it as a significant political move rather than a simple cultural visit.
Despite Trump’s claims about Greenland’s importance to U.S. interests, Danish and Greenlandic officials have consistently rejected any notions of selling or annexing the territory, affirming Greenland’s sovereignty as non-negotiable. The recent political transition in Greenland following elections added complexity to the situation, with the new government emphasizing the importance of standing together for respect and independence.
