The recent US-led strike in the South American nation and the capture of its leader have sparked worry regarding Washington's designs on the Arctic territory. Supporters of the former president's base have allegedly set their sights on the resource-rich island in the wake of the operations in South America.
Provocative Messages and Diplomatic Backlash
Merely hours after the commencement of the Venezuelan operation, a prominent conservative commentator, who is married to a senior White House aide, shared a symbolic image. The graphic depicted Greenland covered in the stars and stripes, with the cryptic message: "SOON."
This blatant suggestion to absorb the resource-abundant region, which is a member of the NATO alliance, provoked swift and strong criticism from Danish representatives.
"We are strong partners and should continue to work together as such. US security is equally Greenland’s and our security," declared the Copenhagen's envoy to the United States. "Our nation and the United States work together to guarantee security in the Arctic."
The diplomat further highlighted that Denmark had significantly increased its defence spending this year, allocating a substantial amount specifically for Northern and North Atlantic security. "Furthermore, we expect full recognition for the sovereign borders of the our realm," he added.
Administrative Appointments and Strategic Goals
The tensions were further complicated by the previous appointment of a US state governor as a representative to Greenland. The appointee had openly thanked the commander-in-chief, saying 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 representative commended the administration's decisive move, connecting it to the broader "fight against narcotics."
Ever since assuming office, the US president has repeatedly alarmed transatlantic partners with his stated interest in Greenland. The island is viewed as critically important for defence and potential mineral exploitation. It already hosts the northernmost US military base.
Refusing to Rule Out Military Action
In a notable media appearance, the leader refused to exclude the use of armed action to gain control of Greenland. This stance comes amid intensifying great-power competition in the polar region. "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 described Greenland as having a "very small amount of people, which we’ll look after, and we’ll cherish them... But we need that for global security."
Mounting Friction and Local Opposition
In reaction to this constant "drumbeat" of intent, Denmark's security agency took the unprecedented step last month of classifying the United States as a "potential threat."
The prime ministers of Denmark and Greenland delivered a unified and stern statement: "We have said it very clearly before. Now we say it again... You cannot annex other countries."
Surveys in Greenland shows a complex sentiment. While a overwhelming percentage of the island's residents seek independence from Copenhagen, there is also scant desire to become part of the United States. The island has had the option to seek sovereignty for many years.
Expert View: A Credible Threat?
Military analysts are now reconsidering the likelihood of such a action. One policy director specializing in military analysis admitted she had previously discounted the rhetoric but was "now not so sure."
"Logistically, it would be feasible for the US to station a few hundred or a few thousand troops on Greenland, and it's unclear to me who could intervene about it," she concluded.
