The visit of a senior US official, Michael Waltz, and the second lady, Usha Vance, to Greenland has sparked outrage among Greenlandic officials. Prime Minister Mute B. Egede called the move “aggressive” and accused President Trump’s administration of seeking to exert control over the island.
Waltz is scheduled to visit a US military base on Greenland, while Vance will participate in cultural events. The visit comes as tensions between Greenland and the US have escalated, with many Greenlanders opposing any closer ties with Washington.
Greenland has been self-governing since 1979, but the Trump administration’s actions have fueled concerns that the island is being targeted for annexation. President Trump has repeatedly made public statements about his desire to make Greenland part of the US, sparking international concern.
The visit was met with skepticism by Greenlandic officials, who felt it was an attempt to exert influence over the island without its consent. The Danish government, which represents Greenland in international affairs, also expressed disappointment with the US move.
US officials claimed that the visit was meant to promote cultural exchange and build partnerships, but Greenlandic officials saw it as a demonstration of US power and control. The tension between the two sides highlights the ongoing dispute over Greenland’s status and the future of its relationship with the US.
The US has been seeking to expand its influence in the Arctic region, where Greenland is located. The island holds significant natural resources, including rare earth minerals and other valuable assets. However, Greenland’s unique environment and fragile ecosystem make it a sensitive issue for many countries.
As the situation continues to unfold, international observers are watching closely to see how the US and Greenland will navigate their relationship in the coming months.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/23/us/politics/usha-vance-trump-us-greenland.html