Donald Trump's renewed interest in Greenland has ignited a firestorm of criticism - and an expert in the region has weighed in by condemning his administration's approach as "disrespect, intimidation, and harassment." Dr Dwayne Ryan Menezes, founder and managing director of the Polar Research and Policy Initiative (PRPI), was speaking after Vice President JD Vance confimed that he will accompany his wife, Usha Vance, on a visit to the Arctic territory on Friday amid escalating diplomatic tensions.
The visit, initially centered around cultural engagements such as attending Greenland's national dogsled race, has shifted focus towards security matters, with plans to visit the US Space Force outpost at Pituffik. This alteration aims to reduce potential encounters with local residents angered by the Trump administration's overtures towards annexation. President Donald Trump has reiterated his desire for US control over Greenland, citing national security concerns and the island's strategic significance.
Mr Trump has often mentioned the possibility of the US acquiring the island, and has claimed "ownership and control of Greenland is an absolute necessity," citing perceived threats from other nations and the need to protect US and allied interests.
Dr Menezes, however, has criticised this approach, highlighting the detrimental impact on US-Greenland relations.
He stated: "The current strategy is doing more harm than good. Annexing Greenland is simply not the right strategy. Disrespecting the people of Greenland by saying the US will acquire it 'one way or the other' is unhelpful and counter-productive."
The timing of the Vances' visit has further exacerbated such tensions. Greenland recently held a general election on March 11, resulting in a shift in the political landscape. The leading parties, Demokraatit and Naleraq, are currently in coalition negotiations to form a new government. Additionally, local elections are scheduled for April 1.
Dr Menezes underscored the importance of a respectful and cooperative approach, noting that Greenland has been a steadfast ally to the US for more 80 years.
He advocated for measures that cultivate trust and goodwill, stating: "Continuing with measures to cultivate trust and goodwill, while respecting the right of the Greenlandic people to self-determination, would have gone much farther in securing US interests in Greenland than the relentless campaign of disrespect, intimidation and harassment."
The PRPI director also highlighted the potential consequences of the current US strategy, warning that it could alienate allies and undermine long-term interests. He called for a reorientation of US strategy towards strengthening bilateral relations with Greenland, prioritising alliance over conquest.
As the situation unfolds, the international community watches closely, aware that the approach taken by the US could have lasting implications for Arctic geopolitics and alliances.
The US delegation's visit during this sensitive period has been perceived by some Greenlandic politicians as foreign interference.
Outgoing Prime Minister Mute Bourup Egede described the visit as "highly aggressive," urging the international community to respond.
Denmark's Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen echoed these sentiments, accusing the US of exerting "unacceptable pressure" on Greenland and Denmark.
She emphasised the importance of respecting Greenland's autonomy and the ongoing political processes.
