American Attack on Venezuela Raises Concerns of Future Greenland Takeover.
The recent American bombardment in Venezuela and the capture of its leader have renewed worry regarding America's ambitions on the Arctic territory. Supporters of the ex-president's base have reportedly set their sights on the strategically important island following the events in South America.
Provocative Posts and Official Outrage
Only a short time following the commencement of the Venezuelan operation, a well-known right-wing commentator, who is the spouse of a high-ranking presidential adviser, posted a suggestive image. The picture depicted Greenland covered in the American flag, with the cryptic message: "SOON."
This blatant suggestion to claim the resource-abundant region, which is a member of the NATO alliance, triggered swift and firm condemnation from Danish officials.
"Denmark and the US are strong partners and should continue to work together as such. US security is also Greenland’s and our security," declared 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 further pointed out that Denmark had significantly boosted its military budget recently, earmarking a large amount expressly for Northern and regional defence. "Furthermore, we demand complete recognition for the territorial integrity of the Kingdom of Denmark," he added.
Political Moves and Strategic Goals
The situation were further complicated by the previous appointment of a US state governor as a representative to Greenland. The governor had publicly expressed gratitude to the commander-in-chief, saying it was an "honour" to work in a unpaid role to "make Greenland a part of the US."
Following the military action in Venezuela, this representative commended the administration's decisive move, linking it to the wider "fight against narcotics."
Since assuming office, the US president has repeatedly alarmed transatlantic allies with his stated desire in Greenland. The island is considered vitally important for national security and potential resource extraction. It currently houses the most northerly US air base.
Leaving the Door Open to Force
In a significant television appearance, the leader refused to exclude the use of military force to gain control of Greenland. This stance comes during 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 value them... But we need that for global security."
Growing Tensions and Local Resistance
In reaction to this persistent "drumbeat" of threats, Denmark's security agency took the unprecedented step last month of labelling the United States as a "potential threat."
The prime ministers of Denmark and Greenland delivered a joint and forceful rebuke: "We have said it very clearly before. Now we say it again... You cannot annex other countries."
Public opinion in Greenland reveals a nuanced sentiment. While a overwhelming percentage of the island's inhabitants seek self-rule 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.
Expert Assessment: A Plausible Scenario?
Military analysts are now reconsidering the possibility of such a move. One policy analyst focusing in military analysis conceded she had once discounted the rhetoric but was "currently not so sure."
"Logistically, it would be feasible for the US to deploy a couple hundred or a couple thousand soldiers inside of Greenland, and it's not clear to me which power could do anything about it," she concluded.