The latest US-led bombardment in Venezuela and the detention of its leader have sparked unease regarding Washington's designs on Greenland. Supporters of the ex-president's base have reportedly set their sights on the strategically important landmass following the events in the southern hemisphere.
Inflammatory Posts and Diplomatic Outrage
Only hours following the commencement of the Venezuelan operation, a prominent right-wing podcaster, who is married to a high-ranking presidential adviser, posted a symbolic map. The picture depicted Greenland covered in the stars and stripes, with the single-word message: "SOON."
This overt threat to absorb the mineral-rich land, which is a part of the NATO alliance, triggered swift and strong criticism from Danish officials.
"Denmark and the US are strong partners and should continue to work together as such. US security is also Greenland’s and Denmark’s security," declared the Copenhagen's envoy to the United States. "The Kingdom of Denmark and the US collaborate to guarantee security in the Arctic."
The ambassador additionally pointed out that Denmark had substantially increased its defence spending this year, earmarking a substantial sum specifically for Northern and North Atlantic defence. "And yes, we demand complete respect for the sovereign borders of the our realm," he emphasized.
Political Moves and Geopolitical Interests
The tensions were further complicated by the recent appointment of a US state governor as a representative to Greenland. The appointee had openly expressed gratitude to the commander-in-chief, stating it was an "honour" to work in a volunteer capacity to "bring Greenland into the US."
After the military action in Venezuela, this envoy praised the administration's actions, connecting it to the wider "war on drugs."
Since assuming office, the American leader has repeatedly alarmed transatlantic partners with his stated interest in Greenland. The territory is considered vitally strategic for national security and potential resource extraction. It currently hosts the northernmost US air base.
Refusing to Rule Out Military Action
In a notable media interview, the leader declined to rule out the resorting to military force to acquire Greenland. This position comes amid growing 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 stated.
He characterized Greenland as having a "tiny amount of people, which we’ll look after, and we’ll value them... But we need that for international security."
Mounting Tensions and Local Resistance
In response to this persistent "rhetoric" of intent, Danish security agency took the unprecedented step last month of labelling the United States as a "potential threat."
The prime ministers of Denmark and Greenland issued a joint and stern statement: "We have said it very clearly before. Now we say it again... You must not annex other countries."
Public opinion in Greenland shows a complex sentiment. While a overwhelming percentage of the island's inhabitants desire independence from Denmark, there is also little to no appetite to join the United States. The territory has had the option to declare sovereignty for over a decade.
Expert Assessment: A Credible Threat?
Military experts are increasingly reconsidering the likelihood of such a action. One thinktank analyst focusing in defence admitted she had once dismissed the sabre-rattling but was "now not so sure."
"It wouldn't be that hard for the US to station a few hundred or a couple thousand soldiers on Greenland, and it's not clear to me who could do anything about it," she observed.
