The latest US-led military action in Venezuela and the seizure of its president have sparked unease regarding America's designs on Greenland. Supporters of the ex-president's political movement have allegedly set their sights on the strategically important landmass following the events in South America.
Provocative Messages and Diplomatic Backlash
Merely hours following the commencement of the Caracas operation, a well-known conservative commentator, who is the spouse of a senior presidential aide, posted a suggestive map. The picture depicted Greenland draped with the stars and stripes, accompanied by single-word message: "SOON."
This blatant suggestion to absorb the mineral-rich region, which is a member of the NATO alliance, triggered swift and strong condemnation from Denmark's officials.
"We are strong partners and should keep cooperate as such. American security is also Greenland’s and Denmark’s security," declared the Danish ambassador to the United States. "Our nation and the United States collaborate to guarantee security in the Arctic."
The ambassador further highlighted that the kingdom had substantially increased its defence spending recently, allocating a large sum expressly for Arctic and North Atlantic security. "Furthermore, we demand full recognition for the territorial integrity of the our realm," he added.
Administrative Appointments and Strategic Interests
The tensions were further complicated by the recent appointment of a US state governor as a special envoy to Greenland. The governor had publicly thanked the commander-in-chief, saying it was an "honour" to work in a volunteer capacity to "make Greenland a part of the US."
After the events in Venezuela, this representative commended the administration's actions, linking it to the wider "fight against narcotics."
Ever since assuming office, the American leader has repeatedly alarmed transatlantic allies with his expressed desire in Greenland. The island is viewed as vitally important for national security and potential mineral exploitation. It currently houses the most northerly US air base.
Leaving the Door Open to Force
In a notable media appearance, the leader refused to exclude the use of military force to gain control of Greenland. This position comes amid intensifying global 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 "very small amount of people, which we’ll look after, and we’ll cherish them... But we need that for international security."
Mounting Tensions and Local Resistance
In reaction to this persistent "drumbeat" of intent, 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 issued a unified and stern rebuke: "We have said it very clearly before. Now we say it again... You cannot take over other countries."
Surveys in Greenland reveals a complex picture. While a overwhelming percentage of the island's inhabitants seek independence from Copenhagen, there is also scant desire to join the United States. The territory has had the legal right to declare sovereignty for many years.
Analyst Assessment: A Credible Scenario?
Military experts are increasingly re-evaluating the possibility of such a move. One thinktank analyst focusing in military analysis admitted she had previously dismissed the sabre-rattling but was "currently not so sure."
"It wouldn't be that hard for the US to station a couple hundred or a couple thousand soldiers inside of Greenland, and it's unclear to me which power could intervene about it," she observed.
