U.S. Military Force Considered for Greenland Amid Tensions and Diplomatic Snubs

Recent developments have escalated tensions between the United States and Greenland, with former President Donald Trump suggesting that military force is not off the table for the Arctic island. This statement comes amidst a backdrop of strained relations, highlighted by Usha Vance's recent visit to Greenland, where she faced a cold reception from local officials.

Usha Vance, wife of U.S. Senator J.D. Vance, was in Greenland to discuss the strategic importance of the Thule Air Base, a key U.S. military installation. However, her visit was met with resistance, as Greenlanders expressed frustration over perceived U.S. overreach in their region. The snub was seen as a direct response to ongoing U.S. policies that many locals view as aggressive.

Adding to the tension, a traditional Greenlandic dog sled race, which Vance attended, turned into a platform for anti-U.S. sentiment. Participants and spectators alike voiced their opposition to increased U.S. military presence, further complicating diplomatic efforts.

The situation underscores the delicate balance of power and influence in the Arctic, with Greenland caught between its autonomy and the strategic interests of global powers like the United States.

• Donald Trump
• Greenland
• Thule Air Base
• Usha Vance

Detailed

Trump won't rule out military force to take Greenland

6 days ago

- npr

Trump says military force not off the table for Greenland after Danish FM scolds his administration

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- apnews

Trump to use military force to annex Greenland? Fumed US President makes big statement after Denmark FM chides JD Vance

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- hindustantimes

No Second Lady, No Problem: Greenland’s Dog Sled Race Goes Barking On

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- nytimes

The Observer view on JD Vance: spurned in Greenland and humiliated at home, the vice-president should resign

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- theguardian

Related issues news

What is Denmark to Greenland?

Greenland (Greenlandic: Kalaallit Nunaat, pronounced [kalaːɬːit nʉnaːt]; Danish: Grønland, pronounced [ˈkʁɶnˌlænˀ]) is an autonomous territory in the Kingdom of Denmark. It is by far the largest of three constituent parts of the kingdom; the other two are metropolitan Denmark and the Faroe Islands.

Why do the USA want Greenland?

The United States has long viewed Greenland as vital to national security. In the early 20th century, it included Greenland among several European possessions in the Western Hemisphere to preemptively seize and fortify in the event of a threatened attack on the US.

Is there a military base in Greenland?

With a bowling alley, cinema and even a hotel, Pituffik (formerly Thule Base), where around 150 American soldiers are deployed – compared with 10,000 at the height of the Cold War – is the last American base still operating in Greenland.