The latest US-led bombardment in the South American nation and the capture of its president have renewed apprehension regarding America's ambitions on Greenland. Followers of the ex-president's political movement have reportedly focused on the resource-rich island following the operations in the southern hemisphere.
Inflammatory Posts and Official Outrage
Merely hours after the initiation of the Venezuelan operation, a well-known conservative commentator, who is married to a high-ranking White House aide, posted a suggestive image. The picture depicted Greenland covered in the stars and stripes, with the cryptic message: "SOON."
This blatant suggestion to claim the mineral-rich region, which is a part of the NATO alliance, triggered swift and firm condemnation from Danish representatives.
"We are strong partners and should continue to cooperate as such. American security is equally Greenland’s and Denmark’s security," stated the Copenhagen's envoy to the United States. "The Kingdom of Denmark and the US work together to guarantee security in the Arctic."
The ambassador additionally highlighted that Denmark had substantially increased its military budget this year, earmarking a substantial amount expressly for Arctic and regional security. "And yes, we expect complete respect for the territorial integrity of the our realm," he emphasized.
Political Appointments and Strategic Goals
The tensions were additionally exacerbated by the recent appointment of a US state governor as a representative to Greenland. The appointee had openly thanked the president, stating it was an "privilege" to serve in a volunteer role to "make Greenland a part of the US."
Following the military action in Venezuela, this envoy commended the administration's actions, connecting it to the broader "war on drugs."
Since assuming office, the American leader has consistently alarmed transatlantic allies with his stated interest in Greenland. The territory is viewed as critically important for national security and future mineral exploitation. It currently houses the northernmost US air base.
Refusing to Rule Out Force
In a notable media interview, the leader declined to rule out the resorting to military force to gain control of Greenland. This stance 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 remarked.
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."
Mounting Tensions and Local Opposition
In response to this constant "drumbeat" of intent, Danish intelligence service took the extraordinary step last month of classifying the United States as a "potential threat."
The leaders of both 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 nuanced sentiment. While a overwhelming percentage of the island's inhabitants seek independence from Denmark, there is also scant desire to become part of the United States. The island has had the legal right to declare sovereignty for many years.
Expert View: A Credible Scenario?
Some analysts are increasingly reconsidering the possibility of such a move. One thinktank director specializing in military analysis admitted she had previously dismissed the rhetoric but was "now not so sure."
"Logistically, it would be feasible for the US to station a few hundred or a couple thousand troops inside of Greenland, and it's unclear to me which power could do anything about it," she concluded.
