The latest American military action in the South American nation and the detention of its president have sparked unease regarding Washington's ambitions on Greenland. Followers of the ex-president's political movement have allegedly focused on the vast landmass in the wake of the events in South America.
Provocative Messages and Diplomatic Backlash
Only a short time following the start of the Venezuelan operation, a well-known right-wing podcaster, who is the spouse of a senior presidential adviser, posted a suggestive image. The graphic showed Greenland covered in the stars and stripes, accompanied by cryptic caption: "COMING."
This overt threat to absorb the mineral-rich land, which is a member of the NATO alliance, provoked swift and strong criticism from Denmark's officials.
"We are strong partners and should keep 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 North."
The diplomat additionally pointed out that Denmark had significantly boosted its military budget recently, earmarking a substantial sum specifically for Northern and North Atlantic defence. "And yes, we expect full recognition for the territorial integrity of the Kingdom of Denmark," he added.
Administrative Moves and Strategic Interests
The tensions were further complicated by the recent naming of a US state governor as a representative to Greenland. The appointee had publicly 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 president's actions, linking it to the broader "fight against narcotics."
Ever since returning to office, the US president has consistently alarmed European partners with his expressed interest in Greenland. The territory is viewed as vitally strategic for national security and future resource extraction. It already houses the most northerly US air base.
Refusing to Rule Out Military Action
In a notable television appearance, the leader refused to rule out the resorting to armed action to acquire Greenland. This stance comes amid intensifying great-power competition 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 "tiny amount of people, which we’ll take care of, and we’ll value them... But we need that for global security."
Growing Friction and Local Resistance
In response to this constant "rhetoric" of intent, Danish security agency took the unprecedented step last month of labelling the United States as a "potential threat."
The leaders of Denmark and Greenland issued a joint and stern rebuke: "We have said it very clearly before. Now we say it again... You cannot take over other countries."
Public opinion in Greenland shows a nuanced sentiment. While a vast majority of the territory's inhabitants seek independence from Copenhagen, there is also little to no desire to join the United States. The territory has had the legal right to seek sovereignty for many years.
Analyst Assessment: A Credible Scenario?
Some analysts are increasingly re-evaluating the likelihood of such a move. One policy director specializing in military analysis conceded she had previously dismissed the rhetoric but was "currently not so sure."
"It wouldn't be that hard for the US to station a few hundred or a few thousand troops on Greenland, and it's unclear to me who could do anything about it," she concluded.
