Usha Vance, the spouse of JD Vance, is under scrutiny for her upcoming journey to Greenland. She has sparked controversy by stating that her main concern revolves around the well-being of the region’s canines rather than its political status.
The scheduled expedition to the Danish territory has faced criticism from both local and international sources. Outgoing prime minister of Greenland, Múte Egede, has labeled the visit as a “very aggressive” move.
Accompanying Vance on the expedition will be national security adviser Mike Waltz and energy secretary Chris Wright.
In her defense, Usha Vance has emphasized the aim to uphold the “long history of cooperation and mutual respect” between Greenland and the United States. Furthermore, the White House has clarified that the primary purpose of Vance’s visit is to participate in the national dog-sled race, aligning with the theme of mutual celebration.
Nevertheless, this justification is met with doubt by some, particularly in light of President Donald Trump’s previously expressed desire to acquire Greenland from Denmark upon his return to office. Regarding the potential annexation of Greenland, Trump purportedly commented, “I think that will happen,” as reported by the Irish Star.
Given these circumstances, Vance’s expedition is being viewed with suspicion as the United States becomes entangled in a complex situation.
Greenland has long been at a crossroads regarding its future, with internal divisions over the pursuit of independence from Denmark.
According to the BBC, a recent survey indicated that nearly 80% of Greenlanders support breaking away from their European counterpart.
Despite the push for independence from Denmark, it appears that Greenlanders are not inclined to become part of the United States. A survey in January revealed that over 80% of Greenland’s population opposes the idea of becoming the 51st U.S. state.
The answer lies in a combination of energy and security interests. Notably, it’s not just one of Trump’s security advisers accompanying Usha Vance, but also his energy secretary.
Greenland’s abundance of natural resources, such as iron, copper, coal, and zinc, is highly appealing to a U.S. seeking energy independence from China.
Security is another significant aspect driving Trump’s interest in Greenland. The strategically positioned territory in the Atlantic is home to the Thule Air Force base, a U.S. military installation.
Trump has made forceful statements about Greenland, asserting that he requires it “for national security” and alleging that Denmark has no “legal right to it,” as reported by the Standard.
However, despite Trump’s claims, Denmark’s ties to Greenland date back centuries. It wasn’t until 1953 that Greenland ceased to be a colony.
Home rule was introduced in 1979, and in 2009, Greenlanders and their government were granted increased autonomy. Presently, Greenland manages its internal affairs while Denmark oversees foreign policy and defense matters.
Since taking office, Trump has openly expressed interest in annexing Greenland, citing national security reasons, a move likened to Putin’s annexation of Crimea in 2014.
The situation is further complicated by the fact that both Denmark and the U.S. are members of NATO, and any military advancement, whether planned through text message or otherwise, could provoke a diplomatic crisis.
This doesn’t necessarily indicate that Trump will try to annex Denmark and make it the 51st state. However, Usha Vance’s visit with an energy secretary and national defense advisor under the pretext of visiting dogs has raised concerns in Greenland and the rest of Europe.