Recent US-led strike in the South American nation and the detention of its leader have renewed unease regarding America's designs on the Arctic territory. Supporters of the former president's political movement have allegedly set their sights on the strategically important island in the wake of the operations in the southern hemisphere.
Provocative Messages and Diplomatic Backlash
Only hours following the commencement of the Venezuelan campaign, a prominent conservative podcaster, who is married to a high-ranking White House adviser, shared a suggestive image. The graphic showed Greenland covered in the American flag, accompanied by cryptic caption: "SOON."
This overt threat to absorb the mineral-rich land, which is a part of the North Atlantic alliance, triggered swift and strong condemnation from Denmark's officials.
"Denmark and the US are close allies and should continue to cooperate as such. US security is equally the Arctic's and Denmark’s security," stated 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 substantially increased its defence spending recently, allocating a large sum specifically for Arctic and regional security. "And yes, we expect complete respect for the territorial integrity of the our realm," he emphasized.
Administrative Moves and Strategic Goals
The tensions were further exacerbated by the previous appointment of a US state governor as a representative to Greenland. The governor had openly thanked the president, stating it was an "privilege" to serve in a volunteer role to "make Greenland a part of the US."
After the events in Venezuela, this envoy commended the administration's actions, linking it to the wider "fight against narcotics."
Since assuming office, the American leader has repeatedly alarmed European allies with his expressed desire in Greenland. The territory is considered vitally important for defence and potential mineral exploitation. It currently hosts the northernmost US military base.
Leaving the Door Open to Force
In a notable television interview, the president declined to rule out the use of armed action to acquire Greenland. This position comes amid growing global 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 characterized Greenland as having a "very small amount of people, which we’ll take care of, and we’ll value them... But we need that for global security."
Growing Tensions and Indigenous 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 delivered a joint and stern rebuke: "We have said it very clearly before. Now we say it again... You must not take over other countries."
Public opinion in Greenland shows a nuanced picture. While a overwhelming percentage of the territory's inhabitants seek self-rule from Denmark, there is simultaneously little to no desire to join the United States. The island has had the option to declare sovereignty for many years.
Expert Assessment: A Plausible Threat?
Military experts are now re-evaluating the likelihood of such a action. One thinktank analyst focusing 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 deploy a couple hundred or a few thousand troops on Greenland, and it's not clear to me which power could do anything about it," she observed.
