US Vice President JD Vance criticized Denmark on Friday for what he termed as “underinvestment” in the security of Greenland, urging Denmark to modify its strategy. His comments come in the context of President Donald Trump’s ongoing discussions about acquiring the Danish territory.

The pointed remarks came as Vance visited US troops on Pituffik Space Base on the mineral-rich, strategically critical island.

“Our message to Denmark is very simple: You have not done a good job by the people of Greenland,” Vance said.

He added that “we must stick together. Together we are strongest,” Greenland broadcaster KNR reported.

In an Instagram post, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen extended her congratulations to Nielsen and the new incoming government. She expressed her anticipation for strong collaboration during what she described as a period unnecessarily filled with conflict.

On Tuesday, Frederiksen remarked that the planned US visit, initially scheduled for a three-day duration, imposed “unacceptable pressure.” She emphasized Denmark’s interest in partnering with the US on defence and security matters while reaffirming that Greenland belongs to the Greenlanders.

Initially, Vance’s wife, Usha Vance, had announced a solo trip to the Avannaata Qimussersu dogsled race in Sisimiut. The vice president subsequently said he would join her on that trip, only to change that itinerary again — after protests from Greenland and Denmark — to a one-day visit to the military post only.

Inhabitants of Nuuk, which is about 1500 kilometres south of Pituffik, voiced concern about Vance’s visit and the U.S. interest in their island.

Cora Høy, 22, said Vance was “welcome if he wants to see it but of course Greenland is not for sale.” She added that “it’s not normal around here” with all the attention Greenland is getting. “I feel now every day is about (Trump) and I just want to get away from it.”

“It’s all a bit crazy. Of course the population here is a bit shook up,” said 30-year-old Inuk Kristensen. “My opinion is the same as everyone’s: Of course you don’t do things this way. You don’t just come here and say that you want to buy the place.”

As the nautical gateway to the Arctic and North Atlantic approaches to North America, Greenland has broader strategic value as both China and Russia seek access to its waterways and natural resources.

“We need to ensure that America is leading in the Arctic, because we know that if America doesn’t, other nations will fill the gap where we fall behind,” Vance said.