US Attack on Caracas Fuels Concerns of Potential Danish Territory Acquisition.
The latest US-led military action in Venezuela and the seizure of its leader have ignited apprehension regarding Washington's ambitions on Greenland. Followers of the ex-president's political movement have allegedly set their sights on the strategically important island following the events in South America.
Provocative Messages and Official Backlash
Only a short time after the start of the Caracas operation, a prominent right-wing commentator, who is married to a high-ranking White House adviser, posted a suggestive map. The graphic depicted Greenland covered in the stars and stripes, with the single-word message: "SOON."
This overt suggestion to absorb the resource-abundant region, which is a part of the North Atlantic alliance, triggered swift and strong condemnation from Danish representatives.
"Denmark and the US are strong partners and should continue to cooperate as such. American security is also the Arctic's and Denmark’s security," declared the Copenhagen's envoy to the United States. "Our nation and the United States collaborate to ensure security in the Arctic."
The diplomat further pointed out that Denmark had substantially boosted its military budget this year, earmarking a large amount expressly for Northern and North Atlantic defence. "And yes, we expect full recognition for the territorial integrity of the Kingdom of Denmark," he emphasized.
Administrative Moves and Geopolitical Goals
The situation were further complicated by the recent appointment of a US state governor as a special envoy to Greenland. The governor had publicly expressed gratitude to the president, saying it was an "honour" to work in a volunteer capacity to "make Greenland a part of the US."
After the military action in Venezuela, this envoy commended the administration's actions, linking it to the broader "fight against narcotics."
Ever since assuming office, the US president has repeatedly unnerved European partners with his stated desire in Greenland. The territory is considered vitally important for national security and potential resource extraction. It already hosts the most northerly US air base.
Refusing to Rule Out Military Action
In a significant media appearance, the leader refused to rule out the use of armed action to gain control of Greenland. This position comes during growing great-power rivalry 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 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."
Mounting Friction and Local Opposition
In reaction to this persistent "rhetoric" of intent, Danish security agency took the unprecedented step last month of labelling the United States as a "potential threat."
The leaders of both Greenland delivered a joint 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 vast majority of the island's inhabitants seek independence from Copenhagen, there is simultaneously scant desire to join the United States. The island has had the option to declare sovereignty for over a decade.
Expert View: A Credible Scenario?
Military experts are increasingly reconsidering the possibility of such a action. One policy director specializing in military analysis admitted she had previously dismissed the sabre-rattling but was "now not so sure."
"It wouldn't be that hard for the US to station a few hundred or a few thousand troops inside of Greenland, and it's not clear to me which power could intervene about it," she concluded.