COPENHAGEN: In a striking declaration, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has voiced strong criticism against a planned visit by a US delegation to Greenland, a territory under Danish sovereignty that has drawn significant interest from the United States, particularly from former President Donald Trump.

The White House confirmed that Usha Vance, spouse of Vice President JD Vance, along with other high-profile officials including National Security Adviser Mike Waltz and potentially Energy Secretary Chris Wright, will be visiting Greenland this week. They intend to attend the national dogsled race scheduled in Sisimiut from Thursday to Saturday, an event reportedly supported by the US consulate in Nuuk.

Frederiksen expressed her concerns during a press briefing, emphasizing that these visits, framed as private, have created "unacceptable pressure" on both Greenland and Denmark. "You can't organise a private visit with official representatives of another country," she asserted, making it clear that the visit does not align with what Greenland needs or desires amid its political turmoil.

Political Context in Greenland

As Greenland navigates the formation of a new coalition government following its recent general election on March 11, the timing of this visit has raised eyebrows. The outgoing government has publicly stated it did not invite any officials from the US, labeling their presence as inappropriate.

This episode comes on the heels of Trump’s controversial interest in Greenland, which he described as a strategic asset due to its vast natural resources and critical geopolitical location between North America and Europe. Greenland, rich in untapped mineral and oil reserves, has become a focal point amid increasing tensions and interests from global powers including the U.S., China, and Russia in the Arctic region, which has seen newly navigable sea routes due to climate change.

Public Sentiment and Political Reactions

Moreover, public sentiment in Greenland leans towards independence from Denmark, but polling suggests resistance to any form of integration with the United States. Jens-Frederik Nielsen, the likely new prime minister from the centre-right Democrats, expressed disapproval of Trump’s expressed interest in Greenland and its implications.

Aaja Chemnitz, a lawmaker representing Greenland in the Danish Parliament, echoed these sentiments, vehemently asserting that the US delegation's approach, which utilizes "soft power diplomacy" focused on security issues, is both unwelcome and unacceptable.

Controversial Claims and Protests

In a provocative twist, Trump claimed the visit was made "at the invitation of Greenland," insisting that there is a desire among some in Greenland for closer US involvement. However, Frederiksen clarified that while Denmark and Greenland are willing to cooperate with the US, their relationship must respect the sovereignty and the political processes in both territories.

As the US officials prepare for their visit, they will face a planned protest in Sisimiut, where community members have been urged to express their disapproval by turning their backs on the US convoy. Organizer Per Norgard emphasized that the gesture serves as a statement against their presence and methods during this critical political juncture.

Conclusion

The unfolding events highlight not only the evolving political landscape in Greenland but also a wider dialogue about sovereignty, self-determination, and international diplomacy in a rapidly changing Arctic region. The coalition talks within Greenland's parliament continue, but the growing pressure from external forces like the US complicates the native political scenario significantly.