Concerns arise over a planned visit by a U.S. delegation amidst local political transitions.
Mette Frederiksen, the outgoing Prime Minister of Greenland, expressed strong disapproval of 'foreign intervention' ahead of the scheduled arrival of a U.S. delegation.
The visit, set for tomorrow, has raised significant political concerns in the self-governing Danish territory.
Frederiksen stated via
Facebook that it is essential to respect Greenland's unity and democracy without external interference, indicating that there would be 'no meetings' with the American delegation, which is expected to include U.S. National Security Adviser Mike Waltz and Usha Vance, the wife of Vice President Kamala Harris.
Frederiksen emphasized that a clear message was conveyed to the Americans: no meetings could occur until a new government is in place following the recent legislative elections in Greenland.
The elections resulted in the defeat of Frederiksen's leftist, environmentally-focused party.
In contrast, President
Joe Biden characterized the planned visit as 'friendly and not provocative.' He asserted at the end of a White House meeting that the trip was officially at Greenland's invitation, stressing that there is genuine interest from Greenlanders in exploring ties with the United States.
Remarkably, there exists a local independence movement advocating for separation from Denmark, despite low public support for potential annexation by the U.S.
Biden highlighted the importance of Greenland, viewing its incorporation as potentially bolstering 'international security.' Last Sunday, the White House announced that Usha Vance intends to visit Greenland from Thursday through Saturday to view historic sites, learn about Greenland's heritage, and attend a national dog-sled race.
Meanwhile, the incoming leader of the Democratic Party, Jens Frederik Nielsen, who has assumed a significant role following his party's electoral victory, labeled President Biden’s statements regarding Greenland's annexation as 'inappropriate.' Previously, in mid-March, Biden expressed his belief that eventual U.S. annexation of Greenland 'would occur,' framing the issue within the context of enhanced international security.
Frederiksen continued her critique of U.S. positions, calling for Greenlanders to unite and raise their voices against what they perceive to be unacceptable treatment by foreign powers.
In Copenhagen, the Danish Foreign Minister, Lars Løkke Rasmussen, deemed the planned visit to the Danish territory of Greenland 'inappropriate,' noting the recent elections and the current absence of a functioning Greenlandic government.
Strategically located, Greenland spans an area four times larger than France, making it significant due to its position along the shortest possible missile path between the United States and Russia, coupled with its mineral wealth.
While leading political parties in Greenland support independence from Denmark, none endorse the notion of joining the United States.