U.S. Second Lady Usha Vance has canceled her attendance at Greenland’s national dog sled race scheduled for this week, although American tax dollars will support the event.
Sources confirm that the State Department has allocated funding to facilitate the transportation of dogs, sleds, and racers from various locations in Greenland to the race venue. While the exact cost has not been disclosed, estimates suggest it could reach tens of thousands of dollars.
“The United States, through our Consulate in Nuuk, sponsored the transport of all dogs, sleds, and racers to and from 10 cities and towns around Greenland for the race,” a State Department spokesperson stated. Coordination with race organizers continues to ascertain final sponsorship amounts. This support comes at a time when Secretary of State Marco Rubio has significantly reduced foreign aid grants, only approving those that clearly benefit U.S. interests.
Mikkel Jeremiasson, chair of Greenland’s national dog sled race, indicated that while the exact financial contribution from the State Department remains confidential due to agreement terms, the amount is substantial. Reports suggest Air Greenland has been instructed to send transportation invoices to the U.S. Consulate in Nuuk.
Instead of attending the race, Vice President JD Vance will join Usha Vance on a visit to the Pituffik Space Base, formerly Thule Air Base. This visit comes amidst protests over President Trump’s proposals for Greenland to become part of the United States, which has sparked significant discontent among Greenlandic and Danish officials. Polls reveal a majority of Greenlanders oppose the idea, leading to demonstrations against American influence in the region.
“This is clearly a deescalation,” commented Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen regarding Usha Vance’s decision to skip the sled race. He expressed approval that the visit would focus on the Pituffik base instead.
“There was significant interest in Usha’s visit to Greenland, and I wanted to join her,” Vance remarked in a video announcement. The Vances are set to meet with American troops stationed at the base, where approximately 650 personnel from various nations are deployed.
Vance emphasized the importance of the visit, stating that Greenland is strategically vital due to looming international threats. “We’re going to check out how things are going there,” he added.
Greenland’s Prime Minister Mute Egede has reacted to the trip, calling it an “aggressive American pressure” against the Greenlandic community, while Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen labeled the U.S. delegation’s actions as “unacceptable pressure” and pledged resistance.
Meanwhile, Trump reiterated in a recent interview the need for Greenland to be included as part of the United States, citing its significance for international safety and security.
