Denmark’s Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen has pushed back against U.S. accusations that his country is not doing enough for Greenland’s defense. His response comes after U.S. Vice President JD Vance claimed Denmark has “underinvested” in Arctic security.

Vance made his remarks on Friday while visiting the Pituffik Space Base in northern Greenland, a site that plays a key role in U.S. military operations. The comments triggered strong reactions from Danish and Greenlandic officials.

Rasmussen Defends Denmark’s Arctic Strategy

Rasmussen posted a video message on Saturday, pushing back against the American criticism.

“We accept criticism, but not this tone,” Rasmussen said. “This is not how close allies speak to one another.”

He reminded Washington that Denmark has long been a reliable partner in Arctic security. He also pointed out that the U.S. already has a strong military presence in Greenland thanks to a decades-old agreement.

“If the U.S. wants more presence, let’s talk,” Rasmussen stated. “But let’s do it with respect.”

Historic U.S.-Denmark Defense Pact

Rasmussen cited the 1951 U.S.-Denmark defense agreement, which governs American military operations in Greenland. He explained that the U.S. used to operate 17 military installations in Greenland after World War II. However, that number has shrunk to just one—the Pituffik Space Base, which now has only 200 U.S. personnel.

His comments seemed to be a direct response to Vance’s claim that Denmark is not doing enough. The foreign minister suggested that if Washington wants to increase its presence, both nations should discuss how to move forward together rather than exchange public accusations.

Denmark’s Arctic Defense Investment Grows

Rasmussen also highlighted Denmark’s increased Arctic defense spending in recent years. He pointed to a new 14.6 billion kroner (€1.9 billion) investment plan, announced in January, aimed at strengthening Greenland’s security.

As part of the plan, Denmark will fund:

• Three new naval vessels to patrol Arctic waters.
• Long-range drones for surveillance and intelligence gathering.
• New satellite systems to improve monitoring capabilities.

He described these investments as “serious commitments” to the region’s defense, challenging Vance’s assertion that Denmark has neglected Greenland’s security.

Vance Accuses Denmark of Failing Greenland

During his visit to the Pituffik Space Base, Vance delivered a strong rebuke of Denmark’s handling of Greenland.

“You have not done a good job by the people of Greenland,” he told a group of U.S. troops stationed at the base.

He claimed that Copenhagen has failed both Greenland’s population and the broader security of the Arctic. His remarks were seen as a continuation of previous U.S. concerns about Denmark’s Arctic policy.

Under the Trump administration, the U.S. has repeatedly pushed for greater control over Greenland, citing its strategic location and natural resources.

U.S. Takeover of Greenland Back on the Table?

Vance’s statements suggested that Washington still sees a future where Greenland is more closely aligned with the U.S.—potentially even independent from Denmark.

“I think they will eventually partner with us,” he said. “We could protect them better and help their economy grow.”

His words echoed former President Trump’s 2019 proposal to buy Greenland, which sparked a diplomatic dispute between the U.S. and Denmark. The idea was dismissed at the time, but Vance’s latest comments suggest that some in Washington still see Greenland as a U.S. interest.

Greenland and Denmark Reject U.S. Statements

Vance’s remarks were met with immediate backlash from both Danish and Greenlandic leaders.

Many Greenlanders expressed outrage, seeing his words as a renewed attempt to undermine their ties with Denmark. Public anger grew so quickly that U.S. officials were forced to adjust their travel plans, cutting some scheduled events.

Greenland’s government issued a strong statement, rejecting any notion of increased U.S. control. “Greenland is not for sale,” one local politician stated.

Danish Prime Minister Defends Denmark’s Role

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen also responded to the situation, making it clear that Denmark remains a strong U.S. ally despite the tensions.

“Denmark is a loyal and responsible ally,” she said in a statement. “We take our Arctic responsibilities seriously.”

She rejected Vance’s accusations, saying they misrepresented Denmark’s contributions.

Protesters Rally Outside U.S. Embassy in Copenhagen

The controversy over Greenland’s security led to protests in Denmark over the weekend.

Hundreds of demonstrators gathered outside the U.S. Embassy in Copenhagen on Saturday, voicing their opposition to Washington’s latest rhetoric on Greenland.

Many carried signs with slogans like “Back off, USA” and “Greenland is not yours.” Protesters denounced Trump’s stance on annexing Greenland and warned against American interference in Danish sovereignty.

Rising Arctic Tensions

This latest dispute reflects broader tensions in the Arctic, where the U.S., Denmark, Russia, and China are competing for influence. Greenland’s strategic location and valuable resources make it a critical area for global powers.

As the climate crisis melts Arctic ice, the region is becoming more accessible for trade and military activity. The U.S. has pushed for a stronger presence, but Denmark is reluctant to cede more control.

With the Trump administration’s Arctic policies taking shape, the question remains: Will Denmark and the U.S. find common ground, or will tensions over Greenland continue to rise?