US Critique on Greenland's Security Raises Tensions in Europe

Fri Jan 09 2026 13:18:52 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

US Vice-President JD Vance criticizes Denmark and Europe for inadequate defense measures in Greenland, asserting its importance for missile defense against potential threats from Russia and China.

In a recent interview, US Vice-President JD Vance expressed concern over the security of Greenland, labelling it 'critical' for the defense of the US and allies against possible attacks from Russia and China. He criticized Denmark and Europe for under-investing in Greenland's defenses. Amidst discussions on potential annexation and defense strategies, European leaders have reiterated Greenland’s sovereignty, emphasizing their commitment to uphold international principles regarding territorial integrity.

US Vice-President JD Vance says Greenland is 'critical' for the defense of the US and the world against possible Russian or Chinese missile attacks - and that Europe and Denmark have 'not done a good job' in securing the area.

Vance told Fox News that they had not only under-invested in Greenland's defences, but also failed to engage with President Donald Trump's previous concerns over the issue.

On Wednesday, the White House disclosed that US officials are 'actively' discussing a potential offer to buy Greenland, a semi-autonomous Danish territory, just a day after mentioning that military action to annex it was also an option.

Denmark, a fellow NATO member, has warned that such a move would signal the end of the alliance.

Both Greenland and Denmark have strongly emphasized that the island is not for sale.

Despite being the most sparsely populated territory, Greenland's location between North America and the Arctic makes it pivotal for early warning systems during missile threats and for monitoring vessels in the region.

Vance pointed out that Pituffik Space Base, formerly known as Thule Air Base, has been crucial for the US since World War Two.

Amid rising global tensions, concerns about the future of Greenland have surged, especially following Trump's recent threats to use military force against Venezuela.

In a joint statement, leaders from several European nations expressed solidarity with Denmark, stating that 'Greenland belongs to its people,' and that only Denmark and Greenland can decide on their relations.

They affirmed their commitment to Arctic security, insisting it should be pursued collectively through NATO.

Many Greenlanders echoed a mix of fear and indignation at the prospect of being viewed as a bargaining chip in geopolitical strategies, voicing that they do not want to switch from one 'master' to another.

This geopolitical tension comes as Greenland is seen to potentially harbor valuable natural resources that are becoming more accessible due to climate change.

Vance underscored that the entire missile defense infrastructure relies on Greenland for protection against threats from Russia and China, emphasizing that European nations must do more in securing the area.