The Briefing What message is the US trying to send to Greenland?
Mar 26, 2025
Mark Jakobsen, an Associate Professor at the Royal Danish Defence College, and Flavio Volpe, President of the Canadian Automotive Parts Manufacturers Association, share insights on significant geopolitical issues. They explore the implications of the U.S. Vice President's visit to Greenland, revealing local distrust and the territory's strategic military role against Russia. Volpe discusses the impact of U.S. tariffs on Canada’s auto industry, emphasizing the complexities surrounding trade relations and national security. Together, they tackle pressing concerns shaping North American dynamics.
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Vance's Visit to Greenland
- US Vice President JD Vance will join his wife on a trip to Greenland, including a visit to a US space military base.
- This visit follows an initial cultural visit planned by the Second Lady, which has now evolved into something more significant.
Strategic Importance of Thule Air Base
- The Thule Air Base in Greenland is crucial for US national security due to its strategic location for missile defense and its rare earth element resources.
- While the US has a right to visit the base, the timing and context of Vance's visit are problematic.
Diplomatic Implications of the Visit
- Vance's visit to Greenland during a delicate post-election period, and without a formal invitation, is considered a diplomatic faux pas.
- The cancelled visit to Sisimut was perceived as a potential influence operation similar to Don Jr.'s earlier visit.