The latest US-led strike in the South American nation and the capture of its leader have renewed unease regarding America's ambitions on the Arctic territory. Supporters of the former president's base have reportedly set their sights on the resource-rich island following the operations in South America.
Inflammatory Messages and Diplomatic Backlash
Only hours following the commencement of the Venezuelan campaign, a well-known right-wing commentator, who is the spouse of a senior White House aide, shared a suggestive map. The picture showed Greenland draped with the American flag, with the cryptic caption: "SOON."
This blatant suggestion to claim the mineral-rich region, which is a member of the NATO alliance, provoked swift and strong condemnation from Danish officials.
"We are strong partners and should continue to cooperate as such. US security is equally the Arctic's and Denmark’s security," stated the Danish ambassador to the United States. "The Kingdom of Denmark and the United States collaborate to ensure security in the Arctic."
The diplomat further pointed out that the kingdom had substantially increased its military budget this year, allocating a substantial amount expressly for Arctic and North Atlantic security. "Furthermore, we expect complete respect for the territorial integrity of the Kingdom of Denmark," he emphasized.
Political Appointments and Strategic Interests
The situation were additionally exacerbated by the recent appointment of a US state governor as a representative to Greenland. The appointee had publicly thanked the commander-in-chief, saying it was an "privilege" to serve in a volunteer role to "bring Greenland into the US."
Following the events in Venezuela, this representative praised the president's decisive move, linking it to the broader "fight against narcotics."
Since assuming office, the American leader has repeatedly unnerved transatlantic allies with his stated interest in Greenland. The territory is viewed as vitally strategic for national security and potential mineral exploitation. It currently houses the most northerly US air base.
Refusing to Rule Out Military Action
In a significant media interview, the president refused to rule out the resorting to military force to acquire Greenland. This position comes during intensifying great-power rivalry 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 remarked.
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 global security."
Mounting Friction and Local Opposition
In reaction to this persistent "drumbeat" of threats, Danish intelligence service took the unprecedented step last month of classifying the United States as a "potential threat."
The prime ministers of Denmark and Greenland issued a unified and stern rebuke: "We have said it very clearly before. Now we say it again... You cannot annex other countries."
Surveys in Greenland reveals a complex sentiment. While a vast majority of the island's residents desire independence from Denmark, there is simultaneously scant appetite to become part of the United States. The island has had the option to seek independence for many years.
Analyst View: A Plausible Threat?
Military analysts are increasingly reconsidering the possibility of such a move. One thinktank director focusing in military analysis admitted she had previously discounted the sabre-rattling but was "now not so sure."
"It wouldn't be that hard for the US to deploy a couple hundred or a few thousand soldiers on Greenland, and it's not clear to me which power could intervene about it," she concluded.
