The recent US-led strike in the South American nation and the seizure of its leader have sparked apprehension regarding Washington's ambitions on the Arctic territory. Followers of the ex-president's base have allegedly turned their attention to the resource-rich landmass following the operations in the southern hemisphere.
Inflammatory Messages and Official Outrage
Only a short time following the initiation of the Caracas operation, a prominent right-wing commentator, who is the spouse of a senior presidential aide, posted a suggestive image. The graphic depicted Greenland covered in the stars and stripes, accompanied by cryptic message: "SOON."
This blatant threat to absorb the mineral-rich land, which is a member of the North Atlantic alliance, triggered immediate and firm condemnation from Danish representatives.
"Denmark and the US are strong partners and should keep work together 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 ambassador further highlighted that Denmark had substantially boosted its defence spending recently, allocating a large amount expressly for Northern and North Atlantic security. "And yes, we demand complete respect for the territorial integrity of the Kingdom of Denmark," he emphasized.
Political Appointments and Strategic Goals
The tensions were further exacerbated by the recent naming of a Southern governor as a representative to Greenland. The governor had publicly expressed gratitude to the commander-in-chief, stating it was an "honour" to serve in a unpaid capacity to "make Greenland a part of the US."
Following the events in Venezuela, this envoy commended the administration's actions, linking it to the broader "war on drugs."
Ever since assuming office, the American leader has consistently alarmed transatlantic allies with his expressed interest in Greenland. The island is considered vitally important for national security and future resource extraction. It currently hosts the northernmost US air base.
Leaving the Door Open to Military Action
In a notable media appearance, the president refused to rule out the resorting to armed action to acquire Greenland. This position 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 "tiny amount of people, which we’ll take care of, and we’ll cherish them... But we need that for international security."
Growing Tensions and Local Resistance
In reaction 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 both Greenland delivered a unified and stern statement: "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 overwhelming percentage of the island's residents desire self-rule from Denmark, there is also scant desire to join the United States. The island has had the option to declare sovereignty for many years.
Analyst View: A Credible Scenario?
Some analysts are increasingly reconsidering the likelihood of such a move. One policy director specializing in military analysis conceded she had once discounted the rhetoric but was "now not so sure."
"Logistically, it would be feasible for the US to station a few hundred or a few thousand soldiers inside of Greenland, and it's unclear to me who could intervene about it," she observed.
