American Military Operation on Caracas Raises Anxieties of Potential Greenland Takeover.
The latest US-led strike in Venezuela and the detention of its president have renewed apprehension regarding Washington's designs on the Arctic territory. Supporters of the former president's political movement have reportedly set their sights on the strategically important island in the wake of the events in South America.
Provocative Posts and Diplomatic Outrage
Merely a short time after the commencement of the Caracas campaign, a prominent right-wing commentator, who is the spouse of a high-ranking presidential adviser, shared a suggestive image. The graphic depicted Greenland draped with the stars and stripes, with the cryptic message: "COMING."
This overt suggestion to absorb the resource-abundant region, which is a member of the NATO alliance, provoked immediate and strong criticism from Danish officials.
"We are close allies and should continue to work together as such. American security is equally Greenland’s and our security," declared the Copenhagen's envoy to the United States. "The Kingdom of Denmark and the United States work together to ensure security in the North."
The diplomat additionally pointed out that the kingdom had substantially increased its military budget this year, allocating a large sum specifically for Northern and North Atlantic security. "And yes, we expect complete recognition for the territorial integrity of the our realm," he added.
Political Appointments and Geopolitical Goals
The tensions were further exacerbated by the previous naming of a US state governor as a representative to Greenland. The appointee had openly thanked the president, saying it was an "privilege" to work in a volunteer role to "bring Greenland into the US."
Following 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 consistently alarmed transatlantic partners with his expressed desire in Greenland. The territory is considered critically important for national security and potential mineral exploitation. It already hosts the most northerly US military base.
Refusing to Rule Out Force
In a notable media interview, the leader declined to rule out the use of armed action to acquire Greenland. This stance comes during growing global rivalry 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 "tiny amount of people, which we’ll look after, and we’ll value them... But we need that for global security."
Growing Tensions and Local Opposition
In reaction to this persistent "drumbeat" of intent, Danish intelligence service took the unprecedented step last month of labelling the United States as a "security risk."
The prime ministers of both Greenland issued a joint and stern statement: "We have said it very clearly before. Now we say it again... You cannot annex other countries."
Public opinion in Greenland shows a complex picture. While a overwhelming percentage of the territory's residents seek self-rule from Copenhagen, there is simultaneously scant desire to become part of the United States. The island has had the legal right to seek independence for many years.
Expert View: A Credible Scenario?
Some analysts are increasingly reconsidering the possibility of such a move. One thinktank director focusing in defence conceded she had once dismissed the rhetoric but was "currently not so sure."
"It wouldn't be that hard for the US to station a couple hundred or a few thousand troops inside of Greenland, and it's unclear to me who could intervene about it," she concluded.