The latest US-led military action in the South American nation and the seizure of its president have ignited unease regarding Washington's ambitions on the Arctic territory. Members of the former president's political movement have reportedly set their sights on the resource-rich landmass following the events in South America.
Provocative Messages and Diplomatic Backlash
Only a short time after the start of the Venezuelan campaign, a prominent conservative podcaster, who is married to a high-ranking presidential aide, shared a suggestive image. The picture depicted Greenland covered in the stars and stripes, accompanied by cryptic caption: "SOON."
This overt threat to claim the mineral-rich land, which is a part of the NATO alliance, triggered immediate and strong criticism from Denmark's representatives.
"We are strong partners and should continue to cooperate as such. US security is also Greenland’s and our security," stated the Copenhagen's envoy to the United States. "The Kingdom of Denmark and the US work together to ensure security in the Arctic."
The diplomat additionally pointed out that Denmark had significantly increased its defence spending this year, earmarking a large amount expressly for Northern and regional security. "And yes, we demand full recognition for the sovereign borders of the Kingdom of Denmark," he added.
Political Appointments and Strategic Goals
The situation were further exacerbated by the previous appointment of a Southern governor as a representative to Greenland. The governor had publicly thanked the president, saying it was an "honour" to serve in a unpaid capacity to "bring Greenland into the US."
Following the military action in Venezuela, this representative commended the president's actions, linking it to the wider "war on drugs."
Since assuming office, the US president has consistently unnerved transatlantic partners with his expressed desire in Greenland. The island is viewed as critically important for defence and potential mineral exploitation. It currently houses the northernmost US air base.
Leaving the Door Open to Force
In a notable television interview, the leader refused to rule out the use of military force to gain control of Greenland. This stance comes during intensifying global 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 stated.
He described Greenland as having a "very small amount of people, which we’ll take care of, and we’ll cherish them... But we need that for global security."
Mounting Tensions and Local Resistance
In response to this constant "rhetoric" of intent, Denmark's intelligence service took the unprecedented step last month of labelling the United States as a "potential threat."
The prime ministers of Denmark and Greenland issued a unified and forceful 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 sentiment. While a overwhelming percentage of the territory's inhabitants seek independence from Denmark, there is simultaneously little to no appetite to become part of the United States. The territory has had the option to seek independence for many years.
Expert Assessment: A Credible Scenario?
Military experts are increasingly reconsidering the possibility of such a action. One thinktank analyst focusing in military analysis conceded she had once discounted the sabre-rattling but was "currently not so sure."
"It wouldn't be that hard for the US to deploy a couple hundred or a few thousand troops on Greenland, and it's unclear to me which power could do anything about it," she observed.
