The recent US-led bombardment in the South American nation and the detention of its leader have ignited apprehension regarding America's designs on Greenland. Members of the ex-president's political movement have allegedly set their sights on the resource-rich island following the events in South America.
Inflammatory Posts and Diplomatic Backlash
Only hours following the start of the Venezuelan operation, a prominent conservative commentator, who is married to a high-ranking presidential aide, posted a symbolic map. The picture showed Greenland covered in the stars and stripes, with the cryptic caption: "COMING."
This overt suggestion to claim the resource-abundant region, which is a member of the NATO alliance, triggered swift and strong criticism from Denmark's representatives.
"We are strong partners and should continue to cooperate as such. US security is equally Greenland’s and our security," declared 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 boosted its military budget recently, earmarking a large sum specifically for Northern and regional security. "Furthermore, we demand complete recognition for the territorial integrity of the our realm," he emphasized.
Administrative Moves and Strategic Interests
The tensions were further exacerbated by the recent naming of a Southern governor as a representative to Greenland. The governor had openly thanked the president, stating it was an "privilege" to serve in a unpaid role to "make Greenland a part of the US."
After the military action in Venezuela, this envoy praised the president's actions, connecting it to the broader "fight against narcotics."
Since assuming office, the US president has repeatedly alarmed European allies with his stated desire in Greenland. The territory is considered vitally important for defence and potential resource extraction. It already hosts the most northerly US military base.
Leaving the Door Open to Military Action
In a notable media appearance, the president declined to exclude the resorting to armed action to gain control of Greenland. This position comes amid 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 characterized Greenland as having a "very small amount of people, which we’ll look after, and we’ll value them... But we need that for international security."
Growing Friction and Indigenous Opposition
In reaction to this constant "drumbeat" of threats, Danish security agency took the unprecedented step last month of classifying the United States as a "security risk."
The leaders of Denmark and Greenland delivered a joint and stern statement: "We have said it very clearly before. Now we say it again... You cannot annex other countries."
Surveys in Greenland reveals a nuanced sentiment. While a vast majority of the island's inhabitants seek independence from Copenhagen, there is also little to no appetite to join the United States. The territory has had the option to seek sovereignty for many years.
Expert Assessment: A Plausible Threat?
Military analysts are now reconsidering the possibility of such a move. One policy analyst focusing in military analysis conceded she had previously dismissed the rhetoric but was "now not so sure."
"It wouldn't be that hard for the US to deploy a couple hundred or a few thousand soldiers on Greenland, and it's unclear to me which power could intervene about it," she concluded.
