The recent American strike in Venezuela and the capture of its leader have sparked worry regarding America's designs on Greenland. Supporters of the ex-president's base have reportedly set their sights on the vast island following the operations in South America.
Inflammatory Messages and Diplomatic Outrage
Only hours following the start of the Venezuelan campaign, a well-known conservative commentator, who is the spouse of a high-ranking presidential aide, posted a suggestive map. The picture showed Greenland covered in the American flag, accompanied by single-word caption: "SOON."
This blatant suggestion to annex the mineral-rich land, which is a member of the NATO alliance, triggered swift and strong criticism from Denmark's officials.
"We are strong partners and should keep work together as such. US security is also Greenland’s and our security," stated the Copenhagen's envoy to the United States. "Our nation and the United States collaborate to ensure security in the Arctic."
The diplomat further pointed out that the kingdom had substantially increased its defence spending recently, earmarking a large amount expressly for Arctic and North Atlantic security. "And yes, we expect complete recognition for the sovereign borders of the our realm," he emphasized.
Administrative Moves and Geopolitical Interests
The tensions were additionally exacerbated by the recent appointment of a US state governor as a representative to Greenland. The governor had openly thanked the commander-in-chief, saying it was an "honour" to serve in a volunteer capacity to "bring Greenland into the US."
After the events in Venezuela, this envoy commended the administration's decisive move, connecting it to the wider "fight against narcotics."
Ever since returning to office, the American leader has consistently alarmed European partners with his stated desire in Greenland. The territory is considered critically important for national security and potential resource extraction. It already houses the northernmost US air base.
Refusing to Rule Out Military Action
In a notable television interview, the leader declined to rule out the use of military force to gain control of Greenland. This stance comes amid intensifying global 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 stated.
He characterized Greenland as having a "tiny amount of people, which we’ll look after, and we’ll cherish them... But we need that for international security."
Growing Tensions and Local Opposition
In response to this constant "drumbeat" of intent, Denmark's security agency took the extraordinary step last month of classifying the United States as a "security risk."
The leaders of Denmark and Greenland issued a unified and stern statement: "We have said it very clearly before. Now we say it again... You must not take over other countries."
Surveys in Greenland reveals a nuanced sentiment. While a overwhelming percentage of the island's residents seek independence from Denmark, there is also scant desire to join the United States. The island has had the option to declare independence for over a decade.
Analyst View: A Plausible Threat?
Military experts are now reconsidering the likelihood of such a action. One policy analyst specializing in military analysis admitted she had once dismissed the rhetoric but was "now not so sure."
"It wouldn't be that hard for the US to deploy a few hundred or a couple thousand troops inside of Greenland, and it's not clear to me who could intervene about it," she concluded.
