US Attack on Venezuela Raises Fears of Future Greenland Acquisition.

Recent US-led military action in Venezuela and the capture of its president have ignited apprehension regarding America's ambitions on Greenland. Followers of the ex-president's base have allegedly set their sights on the vast landmass following the events in the southern hemisphere.

Provocative Posts and Official Outrage

Only hours following the start of the Venezuelan operation, a prominent right-wing commentator, who is the spouse of a high-ranking White House adviser, posted a suggestive map. The picture depicted Greenland draped with the American flag, with the single-word message: "COMING."

This overt suggestion to absorb the mineral-rich region, which is a part of the North Atlantic alliance, triggered immediate and strong condemnation from Denmark's officials.

"We are close allies and should continue to work together as such. US security is also Greenland’s and our security," stated the Danish ambassador to the United States. "Our nation and the United States collaborate to ensure security in the North."

The diplomat further highlighted that the kingdom had substantially increased its military budget recently, allocating a large sum expressly for Northern and North Atlantic defence. "Furthermore, we expect full respect for the territorial integrity of the Kingdom of Denmark," he emphasized.

Political Moves and Strategic Goals

The situation were further exacerbated by the previous appointment of a US state governor as a representative to Greenland. The governor had openly expressed gratitude to the commander-in-chief, saying it was an "privilege" to work in a unpaid capacity to "bring Greenland into the US."

After the events in Venezuela, this envoy commended the administration's actions, linking it to the wider "fight against narcotics."

Ever since assuming office, the American leader has repeatedly unnerved transatlantic allies with his stated interest in Greenland. The territory is viewed as vitally strategic for defence and future resource extraction. It already houses the most northerly US military base.

Leaving the Door Open to Force

In a significant media interview, the leader declined to rule out the use of military force to acquire Greenland. This position comes during growing global 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 remarked.

He characterized Greenland as having a "tiny amount of people, which we’ll take care of, and we’ll value them... But we need that for international security."

Mounting Tensions and Indigenous Opposition

In response to this constant "drumbeat" of intent, Danish security agency took the unprecedented step last month of labelling the United States as a "security risk."

The prime ministers of Denmark and Greenland delivered a joint and stern rebuke: "We have said it very clearly before. Now we say it again... You cannot annex other countries."

Surveys in Greenland reveals a nuanced sentiment. While a overwhelming percentage of the territory's inhabitants seek independence from Copenhagen, there is simultaneously little to no appetite to become part of the United States. The territory has had the option to seek independence for many years.

Analyst View: A Credible Scenario?

Some analysts are now reconsidering the likelihood of such a move. One policy analyst specializing in defence admitted she had previously discounted the rhetoric but was "currently not so sure."

"Logistically, it would be feasible for the US to deploy a few hundred or a few thousand troops inside of Greenland, and it's not clear to me which power could do anything about it," she concluded.

Denise Randolph
Denise Randolph

Aria is a wellness enthusiast and fidget spinner expert, dedicated to helping others find calm and focus through innovative tools.