Usha Vance, the wife of Vice President J.D. Vance, plans to attend a dogsled competition in Greenland next week, but the trip is drawing criticism from some Greenlandic officials. Though described as a private visit, the presence of American dignitaries so close to an election has caused controversy.
The Avannaata Qimussersua race is set for March 29 in Sisimiut, Greenland’s second-largest town. Vance is expected to arrive a few days ahead of the event. National Security Adviser Mike Waltz may join her during the visit, which could include a stop at the U.S. air base in the island’s north.
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With local elections scheduled for April 1, political leaders in Greenland have voiced concern about the timing. The mayor of Sisimiut turned down a meeting with the delegation, saying it would be more appropriate to speak after the election.
Earlier this month, President Donald Trump told reporters he believed the U.S. would ultimately gain control of Greenland. He called the move important for national and international security, citing military activity by Russia and China in nearby waters.
Greenland recently held national elections, with the Demokraatit party placing first. The coalition-building process is still underway, and tensions around outside involvement have been growing.
When Donald Trump Jr. visited Greenland in January with activist Charlie Kirk, local leaders expressed similar frustration. That visit, too, was unofficial but raised concerns about U.S. influence in Greenlandic affairs.
Sermitsiaq reported that the U.S. consulate has previously supported the dogsled race with financial aid. Despite that connection, the upcoming visit is not being coordinated through official government channels.
