U.S. vows to protect Greenland from Russian, Chinese threats
During a conference at the U.S. military space base in Pituffik, Vice President J.D. Vance stated that the United States is committed to shielding Greenland from possible threats linked to Russia and China. He warned that if Greenland lacks self-determination and its future falls under the influence of the Chinese Communist Party, it would not benefit the local population and pose a serious risk to both U.S. and global security.
During his visit to the U.S. space base in Pituffik, Greenland, on Friday, U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance delivered a pointed message to Denmark, criticizing its handling of Greenland. He argued that Denmark has failed to invest in the island’s security infrastructure adequately and has not managed it effectively.
During the press conference, Vance stressed the situation's urgency, urging greater awareness of Greenland's strategic value. He warned that China is actively trying to entangle the island in debt to gain access to its natural resources, which could have significant military applications.
He confirmed that the United States is ready to respond to any nation attempting to exert influence in the region. He also mentioned that a significant military presence is already in place, and plans are underway to reinforce it further.
Vance explains Trump's words
During the conference, a journalist questioned Vance directly, asking if the United States genuinely intends to acquire Greenland.
Vance responded by saying that the President had emphasized the need to secure Greenland, stressing the importance of taking its security more seriously. He noted that while the president's intentions shouldn't be overlooked, it’s crucial to recognize the growing presence of Russia and China in the area.
"It would be better if they came under our security umbrella"
"We respect the self determination of the people of Greenland," Vance said. "My argument … to them is I think that you'd be a lot better coming under the United States security umbrella than you have been under Denmark's security umbrella," the Vice The president commented that Denmark’s security arrangements primarily rely on the assumption that the United States will cover the costs, suggesting that this is the underlying reality of its defense strategy.
He clarified that Trump’s comments about the U.S. needing to "take over" Greenland were centered on protecting the island’s security. He explained that while multiple countries have strategic interests in Greenland, the United States remains dedicated to supporting the well-being of its residents and securing its national interests.
Vance expressed hope that the people of Greenland would align themselves with the United States, asserting that it is the only country genuinely committed to respecting their sovereignty and ensuring their safety, adding that their security is inherently tied to the U.S.
