The US removed the commander of the Pituffik Space Base in Greenland, Susannah Meyers, due to a "loss of confidence" after Vice President JD Vance's visit to the island. Meyers reportedly sent an email criticizing Vance's actions and comments during the trip. Colonel Shawn Lee replaced Meyers.
Vance's visit to the US Space Force outpost in Greenland sparked controversy. He advocated for increased US control over Greenland, suggesting it would be better under the US security umbrella than Denmark's. His wife's planned dogsled race was altered due to anticipated protests.
The removal highlights ongoing efforts by the US, particularly under President Trump's administration, to assert more control over Greenland. Trump previously expressed a desire to acquire Greenland, even mentioning military force as a possibility, though he indicated a peaceful solution is more likely.
Meyers' email expressed disagreement with Vance's statements, stating that his concerns were not reflective of the base's operations. This action was cited as the reason for her removal.