The recent US-led strike in the South American nation and the capture of its leader have sparked apprehension regarding Washington's designs on the Arctic territory. Followers of the ex-president's base have reportedly set their sights on the strategically important island in the wake of the events in South America.
Provocative Messages and Diplomatic Backlash
Only hours after the commencement of the Venezuelan operation, a well-known right-wing commentator, who is married to a high-ranking presidential aide, posted a symbolic image. The graphic depicted Greenland draped with the stars and stripes, with the cryptic message: "COMING."
This blatant suggestion to claim the mineral-rich land, which is a member of the NATO alliance, provoked swift and strong condemnation from Danish representatives.
"We are close allies and should keep cooperate as such. US security is also the Arctic's and our security," declared the Danish ambassador to the United States. "The Kingdom of Denmark and the United States collaborate to guarantee security in the North."
The ambassador further pointed out that Denmark had significantly increased its defence spending this year, earmarking a substantial sum specifically for Arctic and regional defence. "Furthermore, we expect complete respect for the sovereign borders of the our realm," he added.
Administrative Moves and Geopolitical Goals
The tensions were further exacerbated by the previous appointment of a US state governor as a representative to Greenland. The governor had publicly thanked the president, saying it was an "privilege" to serve in a volunteer capacity to "bring Greenland into the US."
Following the events in Venezuela, this envoy commended the administration's decisive move, connecting it to the broader "war on drugs."
Since returning to office, the American leader has repeatedly unnerved transatlantic allies with his expressed desire in Greenland. The island is viewed as vitally strategic for national security and future resource extraction. It currently houses the most northerly US air base.
Leaving the Door Open to Military Action
In a significant television interview, the leader declined to exclude the use of armed action to gain control of Greenland. This stance comes amid intensifying great-power competition in the polar region. "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 look after, and we’ll cherish them... But we need that for international security."
Growing Friction and Indigenous Opposition
In reaction to this constant "rhetoric" of threats, Danish intelligence service took the unprecedented step last month of labelling the United States as a "security risk."
The prime ministers of Denmark and Greenland delivered a joint and stern 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 inhabitants desire 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 independence for many years.
Analyst Assessment: A Plausible Threat?
Military analysts are increasingly reconsidering the possibility of such a move. One policy analyst focusing in military analysis admitted she had previously discounted the rhetoric but was "currently not so sure."
"Logistically, it would be feasible for the US to deploy a few hundred or a few thousand troops inside of Greenland, and it's unclear to me who could do anything about it," she observed.
