Greenland PM Labels Usha Vance's Visit as 'Very Aggressive' Provocation

Greenland's Prime Minister Mute Egede has fiercely criticized the upcoming visit from Usha Vance, the second lady of the United States, calling it a "very aggressive" provocation. During an interview with Greenland's national outlet Sermitsiaq, Egede expressed concerns about the message behind Vance’s visit, which he believes goes far beyond mere cultural exchange.

The White House announced the visit on Thursday, stating that Vance, along with one of her sons and a U.S. delegation, will explore historical sites, engage in the nation's heritage, and attend Greenland's iconic dogsled race. However, the delegation also includes Michael Waltz, Trump's national security advisor, whose presence raises eyebrows. Egede remarked, "What is the security advisor doing in Greenland? The only purpose is a demonstration of power."

This trip comes amidst lingering tensions following former President Donald Trump's repeated calls for the U.S. to annex Greenland, citing national security interests. Trump had earlier shared unwavering optimism about the acquisition, stating, "I think it will happen."

Egede's reaction also reflects Greenland’s shifting political landscape. His left-wing party recently suffered defeat to the center-right Demokraatit party, which pushes for independence from Denmark, Greenland's governing authority. The new party leader has openly criticized Trump, branding him "a threat to our political independence." Clearly, the island nation is navigating a delicate balance between independence aspirations and external pressures.

Egede urged Greenland's allies to step up, stating, "If they do not speak out loudly about how the USA is treating Greenland, the situation will escalate day by day." He accused the U.S. of undermining Greenland’s sovereignty through prolonged political pressure, suggesting the visit from Vance and Waltz is part of this mounting aggression.

Danish police are deploying additional security forces in anticipation of the delegation’s arrival, a standard protocol for high-level visits. Meanwhile, the White House and second lady’s office have yet to comment on Egede's strong remarks.