The recent US-led bombardment in Venezuela and the detention of its president have ignited worry regarding Washington's designs on the Arctic territory. Supporters of the ex-president's political movement have reportedly set their sights on the resource-rich landmass following the operations in South America.
Provocative Messages and Diplomatic Backlash
Only hours following the start of the Venezuelan operation, a prominent right-wing podcaster, who is married to a high-ranking presidential adviser, shared a suggestive image. The picture depicted Greenland draped with the American flag, accompanied by single-word caption: "COMING."
This overt suggestion to annex the resource-abundant region, which is a part of the NATO alliance, provoked swift and firm criticism from Danish officials.
"We are strong partners and should keep work together as such. American security is equally the Arctic's and our security," declared the Danish ambassador to the United States. "The Kingdom of Denmark and the United States collaborate to ensure security in the North."
The ambassador additionally highlighted that Denmark had significantly increased its defence spending recently, earmarking a large sum specifically for Northern and North Atlantic defence. "And yes, we demand full recognition for the sovereign borders of the our realm," he added.
Administrative Moves and Strategic Goals
The situation were additionally complicated by the previous naming of a Southern governor as a representative to Greenland. The appointee had publicly thanked the commander-in-chief, saying it was an "privilege" to work in a volunteer role to "make Greenland a part of the US."
Following the events in Venezuela, this envoy commended the administration's actions, linking it to the wider "fight against narcotics."
Ever since returning to office, the American leader has repeatedly alarmed transatlantic allies with his expressed desire in Greenland. The island is viewed as critically 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 media interview, the leader refused to exclude the use of armed action to gain control of Greenland. This position comes during 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 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 international security."
Growing Friction and Local Opposition
In reaction to this persistent "drumbeat" of intent, Danish intelligence service took the extraordinary step last month of labelling the United States as a "security risk."
The leaders of Denmark and Greenland issued a joint 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 inhabitants desire self-rule from Denmark, there is also little to no appetite to join the United States. The island has had the legal right to seek independence for many years.
Expert View: A Credible Threat?
Military analysts are increasingly reconsidering the likelihood of such a move. One thinktank director focusing in military analysis admitted she had previously discounted the sabre-rattling but was "now not so sure."
"It wouldn't be that hard for the US to deploy a few hundred or a couple thousand troops on Greenland, and it's unclear to me which power could do anything about it," she concluded.
