US Attack on Caracas Raises Concerns of Future Greenland Acquisition.
The latest US-led military action in Venezuela and the capture of its leader have renewed worry 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 operations in the southern hemisphere.
Provocative Messages and Diplomatic Backlash
Only a short time after the commencement of the Venezuelan campaign, a prominent right-wing commentator, who is the spouse of a high-ranking presidential adviser, posted a symbolic map. The graphic depicted Greenland draped with the stars and stripes, with the single-word caption: "COMING."
This blatant threat to claim the mineral-rich land, which is a part of the North Atlantic alliance, triggered immediate and strong condemnation from Denmark's representatives.
"Denmark and the US are strong partners and should keep work together as such. US security is also the Arctic's and our security," stated the Danish ambassador to the United States. "The Kingdom of Denmark and the US collaborate to ensure security in the North."
The ambassador further pointed out that Denmark had significantly increased its military budget this year, allocating a large sum expressly for Arctic and North Atlantic defence. "And yes, we demand complete recognition for the sovereign borders of the our realm," he added.
Administrative Appointments and Strategic Goals
The situation were further exacerbated by the previous appointment of a Southern governor as a representative to Greenland. The appointee had publicly thanked the commander-in-chief, saying it was an "honour" to serve in a volunteer role to "bring Greenland into the US."
After the military action in Venezuela, this envoy praised the president's decisive move, connecting it to the broader "fight against narcotics."
Ever since assuming office, the American leader has consistently unnerved transatlantic allies with his expressed desire in Greenland. The island is considered critically important for defence and potential mineral exploitation. It already hosts the northernmost US air base.
Leaving the Door Open to 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 growing 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 cherish them... But we need that for global security."
Growing Friction and Indigenous Opposition
In reaction to this persistent "rhetoric" of threats, Danish security agency took the extraordinary step last month of labelling the United States as a "security risk."
The leaders of Denmark and Greenland issued a joint and stern rebuke: "We have said it very clearly before. Now we say it again... You must not take over other countries."
Surveys in Greenland shows a complex sentiment. While a overwhelming percentage of the island's inhabitants seek self-rule from Copenhagen, there is also scant desire to become part of the United States. The territory has had the option to seek sovereignty for many years.
Expert Assessment: A Credible Scenario?
Some experts are now re-evaluating the likelihood of such a action. One policy 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 deploy a few hundred or a couple thousand troops inside of Greenland, and it's unclear to me who could do anything about it," she observed.