WASHINGTON: U.S. President Donald Trump has defended an upcoming visit by his delegation to Greenland amidst criticism from Denmark, asserting that the trip is meant as an expression of goodwill rather than a provocative gesture.
The criticism comes from both the Prime Minister of Greenland and Denmark’s Foreign Minister regarding the visit, which was announced for this week by Trump’s National Security Advisor, Mike Waltz, along with Usha Vance, the wife of Vice President JD Vance.
Trump remarked to reporters following a cabinet meeting, “This is a gesture of friendship, not an act of provocation.”
He clarified that the trip was upon an invitation from Greenland, which has an ongoing independence movement seeking to separate from Denmark, although surveys indicate minimal support for joining the U.S.
“We’ve been invited, and they are quite fond of the idea, as they feel somewhat neglected,” Trump stated.
“I believe Greenland may play an important role in our future. It holds significance for international security,” he added.
Trump has previously indicated that he would not dismiss the possibility of using military force to acquire Greenland.
Officials from the Trump administration highlight the increasing influence of Russia and China in the resource-rich territory, which is seeing new sea routes emerge due to climate change.
Following a recent election victory, Greenland is establishing a new government led by the center-right Democrats, whose leader, Jens-Frederik Nielsen, described Trump’s ambitions regarding Greenland as “inappropriate.”
In a statement, the White House indicated that Usha Vance aims to “explore Greenlandic culture” and plans to attend a dog-sledding event during the visit.
