Recent US-led strike in Venezuela and the detention of its leader have sparked worry regarding America's designs on the Arctic territory. Supporters of the ex-president's base have allegedly focused on the strategically important landmass following the operations in South America.
Inflammatory Messages and Official Backlash
Only hours following the start of the Venezuelan operation, a well-known conservative commentator, who is the spouse of a high-ranking presidential adviser, shared a suggestive image. The picture depicted Greenland draped with the stars and stripes, with the cryptic caption: "COMING."
This overt threat to claim the mineral-rich region, which is a part of the North Atlantic alliance, triggered immediate and firm condemnation from Denmark's officials.
"Denmark and the US are close allies and should keep cooperate as such. US security is also Greenland’s and our security," declared the Copenhagen's envoy to the United States. "The Kingdom of Denmark and the United States work together to ensure security in the North."
The diplomat further highlighted that the kingdom had significantly boosted its military budget this year, earmarking a substantial sum specifically for Arctic and North Atlantic defence. "And yes, we demand full recognition for the sovereign borders of the our realm," he added.
Political Appointments and Strategic Goals
The situation were additionally exacerbated by the recent naming of a US state governor as a representative to Greenland. The appointee had openly thanked the commander-in-chief, stating it was an "privilege" to serve in a unpaid capacity to "make Greenland a part of the US."
Following the military action in Venezuela, this envoy praised the president's actions, connecting it to the broader "fight against narcotics."
Ever since assuming office, the American leader has consistently alarmed European partners with his stated interest in Greenland. The territory is viewed as critically important for national security and potential mineral exploitation. It already hosts the northernmost US military base.
Leaving the Door Open to Force
In a notable media appearance, the leader refused to exclude the use of military force to acquire Greenland. This stance comes during intensifying great-power competition in the Arctic. "I don't rule it out. I don't say I'm going to do it, but I don't rule out anything... We need Greenland very badly," he stated.
He characterized Greenland as having a "very small amount of people, which we’ll take care of, and we’ll cherish them... But we need that for international security."
Growing Friction and Indigenous Resistance
In response to this constant "rhetoric" of threats, Danish intelligence service took the unprecedented step last month of labelling the United States as a "security risk."
The leaders of both Greenland issued a unified and forceful rebuke: "We have said it very clearly before. Now we say it again... You must not take over other countries."
Surveys in Greenland reveals a complex picture. While a overwhelming percentage of the territory's inhabitants desire self-rule from Copenhagen, there is also scant desire to join the United States. The territory has had the option to declare sovereignty for many years.
Expert Assessment: A Plausible Scenario?
Some experts are now reconsidering the possibility of such a action. One policy analyst specializing in military analysis conceded she had previously dismissed the sabre-rattling but was "now not so sure."
"Logistically, it would be feasible for the US to deploy a couple hundred or a few thousand soldiers inside of Greenland, and it's not clear to me who could intervene about it," she observed.
