The United States has removed Colonel Susannah Meyers from her position as commander of the Pituffik Space Base in Greenland following a controversial visit by Vice President JD Vance. The decision was announced by the Space Operations Command, citing a "loss of confidence in her ability to lead" as the reason for her removal.
The controversy began when Vance visited Greenland in late March, where he criticized Denmark's management of the territory, suggesting that Greenland would be more secure under U.S. control. His comments, which echoed President Donald Trump's interest in acquiring Greenland, sparked backlash from both Greenlanders and Danish officials.
Colonel Meyers distanced herself from Vance's remarks by sending an email to base staff, stating that the concerns expressed by the U.S. administration did not reflect those of the Pituffik Space Base. Her email emphasized the base's positive relationship with Denmark and Greenland.
The Pentagon's chief spokesperson, Sean Parnell, posted on X, linking to a Military.com article about Meyers' email and stating that actions undermining the chain of command or subverting President Trump's agenda would not be tolerated. This incident is part of a series of terminations of senior military leaders, including several female leaders.
Colonel Shawn Lee has been appointed as the new commander of the Pituffik Space Base. The situation remains tense as Greenland's Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen reiterated that Greenland is not for sale, emphasizing the island's desire for independence from Denmark through economic self-reliance.