Greenland's Prime Minister Accuses US of Political Interference Amid Sensitive Delegation Visit
Greenland's Prime Minister, Múte Egede, has publicly condemned the recent visit of a U.S. delegation to the Arctic territory, accusing Washington of interfering in its political affairs. Scheduled for this week, the delegation includes U.S. Second Lady Usha Vance and National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, prompting Egede to express concerns regarding foreign influence over the island's integrity and democracy.
In a statement made on Monday, Egede asserted, "It should be said clearly that our integrity and democracy must be respected without foreign interference." The delegation's visit cannot be dismissed as a mere private trip, given the context of U.S. President Donald Trump's longstanding interest in Greenland, which he has described as a strategic asset worthy of annexation.
Vance and her party will engage in various activities during their visit, including a tour of historical sites, learning about Greenland's cultural heritage, and attending the national dogsled race, as detailed by the White House. They are slated to return to the U.S. on March 29.
Alongside Vance, Mike Waltz and Energy Secretary Chris Wright are expected to visit a U.S. military base in Greenland. The White House has not yet responded to inquiries regarding the implications of this visit amidst rising tensions.
President Trump has made the acquisition of Greenland a central focus of his second term since January 20, promising to bring the territory under U.S. governance one way or another. Egede characterized the U.S. presence in Greenland as a demonstration of power, warning that their arrival sends a clear signal about America's intentions.
He expressed concerns that Waltz's role as a close advisor to Trump would heighten pressure on Greenland, emphasizing, "The signal is not to be misunderstood. His presence alone is enough to make Americans believe in Trump's mission."
Greenland holds a pivotal geographical location and is rich in mineral resources, making it a subject of U.S. interest, particularly as it lies on the shortest route between Europe and North America. This is crucial for the U.S. ballistic missile warning system.
However, both the governments of Greenland and Denmark have signified their opposition to any such annexation discussed by Trump. During this sensitive period, the Greenlandic government, which is in a caretaker role following an election on March 11 favoring a gradual move towards independence from Denmark, has opted not to comment further.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen addressed the situation by affirming Denmark's commitment to maintaining sovereignty, saying in a written comment in response to the visit's news, "This is something we take seriously. Our cooperation with the U.S. should be built on the fundamental rules of sovereignty.” She added that discussions concerning Greenland's future would be conducted in close coordination with both the Danish government and the incoming Greenlandic administration.
With rising geopolitical tensions and environmental changes affecting the Arctic region, this delegation visit underscores the precarious balance of sovereignty, international interests, and the aspirations of the Greenlandic people.
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