American Military Operation on Venezuela Fuels Concerns of Potential Danish Territory Acquisition.
The latest US-led bombardment in the South American nation and the detention of its leader have sparked worry regarding America's ambitions on Greenland. Followers of the ex-president's political movement have allegedly set their sights on the vast island following the events in South America.
Provocative Messages and Diplomatic Outrage
Only hours following the start of the Venezuelan campaign, a prominent right-wing podcaster, who is the spouse of a high-ranking White House adviser, posted a symbolic image. The picture showed Greenland covered in the American flag, accompanied by cryptic message: "SOON."
This overt suggestion to claim the mineral-rich region, which is a part of the North Atlantic alliance, provoked swift and firm condemnation from Denmark's representatives.
"We are close allies and should keep work together as such. US security is also Greenland’s and our security," stated the Danish ambassador to the United States. "The Kingdom of Denmark and the United States work together to ensure security in the Arctic."
The diplomat additionally pointed out that the kingdom had substantially increased its military budget this year, earmarking a substantial amount specifically for Northern and North Atlantic security. "Furthermore, we expect complete recognition for the territorial integrity of the our realm," he emphasized.
Political Moves and Strategic Goals
The tensions were further exacerbated by the previous naming of a US state governor as a special envoy to Greenland. The appointee had publicly expressed gratitude to the commander-in-chief, stating it was an "honour" to work in a volunteer role to "make Greenland a part of the US."
Following the events in Venezuela, this representative commended the administration's decisive move, connecting it to the wider "war on drugs."
Since assuming office, the American leader has repeatedly alarmed transatlantic allies with his expressed desire in Greenland. The island is considered critically strategic for defence and future resource extraction. It already hosts the northernmost US military base.
Leaving the Door Open to Force
In a significant media appearance, the president refused to exclude the use of military force to acquire Greenland. This stance comes amid intensifying global 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 remarked.
He characterized Greenland as having a "tiny 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 reaction to this constant "drumbeat" 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 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 reveals a nuanced sentiment. While a overwhelming percentage of the island's residents seek self-rule from Copenhagen, there is simultaneously little to no appetite to become part of the United States. The territory has had the option to declare sovereignty for over a decade.
Expert View: A Credible Scenario?
Some experts are increasingly re-evaluating the likelihood of such a move. One thinktank analyst specializing in defence admitted she had once dismissed the rhetoric but was "currently not so sure."
"It wouldn't be that hard for the US to deploy a few hundred or a couple thousand soldiers inside of Greenland, and it's not clear to me who could intervene about it," she concluded.