News of U.S. Second Lady Usha Vance’s upcoming visit to Greenland, alongside National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, sparked anger on the island. Their trip comes amid President Donald Trump’s ongoing interest in annexing Greenland, a semi-autonomous Danish territory.

According to a White House statement, Vance will arrive on Thursday as part of a U.S. delegation to visit historical sites, learn about Greenland’s heritage, and attend the national dogsled race. The delegation, including Energy Secretary Chris Wright, is scheduled to return to the U.S. on March 29.

According to a U.S. official, two former Trump administration officials will visit the U.S. military base in Greenland. However, the White House has not confirmed this, as reported by The Guardian. Since returning to the White House, Trump has repeatedly expressed his desire to take control of Greenland "one way or another." However, the island is working toward independence and has consistently stated that "it is not for sale."

Greenland’s outgoing Prime Minister, Múte Egede, described Waltz’s visit to the island as a “provocation” in an interview with the Greenlandic newspaper Sermitsiaq. “The only purpose is to show a demonstration of power to us, and the signal is not to be misunderstood,” he stated. “He is Trump’s confidential and closest adviser, and his presence in Greenland alone will certainly make the Americans believe in Trump’s mission, and the pressure will increase after the visit," The Premier of Greenland said. Regarding the visit, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen issued a written statement emphasising that Denmark takes the matter seriously. She expressed Denmark’s willingness to collaborate with the United States but stressed that such cooperation must respect “the fundamental rules of sovereignty.”

Frederiksen also stated that discussions with the United States about Greenland would be closely coordinated with the Danish government and Greenland’s future leadership.

It is worth noting that Greenland lies along the shortest route between Europe and North America. Experts have frequently highlighted its strategic importance, particularly for the U.S. ballistic missile warning system.

Greenland’s valuable mineral resources and strategic position could benefit the U.S. significantly. Since taking office, Trump has introduced a new approach to “mineral politics” by securing agreements with Ukraine to access its rare minerals. Both the Greenlandic and Danish governments have opposed this idea. Public polls conducted before Greenland’s general elections also showed little support for the possibility of the U.S. annexing the island.