American Attack on Venezuela Raises Concerns of Potential Greenland Annexation.

The latest US-led bombardment in Venezuela and the seizure of its leader have ignited apprehension regarding Washington's ambitions on the Arctic territory. Members of the former president's political movement have allegedly focused on the resource-rich island in the wake of the events in South America.

Provocative Messages and Official Outrage

Merely hours after the commencement of the Venezuelan campaign, a prominent right-wing commentator, who is the spouse of a high-ranking White House adviser, shared a suggestive image. The graphic depicted Greenland covered in the American flag, accompanied by cryptic message: "SOON."

This overt suggestion to annex the resource-abundant land, which is a member of the North Atlantic alliance, provoked swift and strong condemnation from Denmark's representatives.

"We are strong partners and should keep work together as such. American security is also Greenland’s and Denmark’s security," stated the Danish ambassador to the United States. "The Kingdom of Denmark and the US collaborate to ensure security in the Arctic."

The diplomat additionally pointed out that the kingdom had significantly boosted its military budget recently, allocating a large sum specifically for Northern and North Atlantic defence. "And yes, we demand complete respect for the territorial integrity of the Kingdom of Denmark," he emphasized.

Administrative Moves and Strategic Goals

The tensions were further exacerbated by the recent appointment of a Southern governor as a representative to Greenland. The appointee had publicly thanked the president, saying it was an "honour" to work in a volunteer role to "make Greenland a part of the US."

Following the events in Venezuela, this envoy praised the president's actions, linking it to the broader "fight against narcotics."

Ever since returning to 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 future mineral exploitation. 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 resorting to military force to gain control of Greenland. This stance 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 described 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 persistent "rhetoric" of intent, Danish security agency took the extraordinary step last month of labelling the United States as a "potential threat."

The prime ministers of both Greenland issued a joint and forceful statement: "We have said it very clearly before. Now we say it again... You cannot take over other countries."

Surveys in Greenland reveals a nuanced picture. While a vast majority of the territory's residents seek self-rule from Copenhagen, there is simultaneously little to no desire to become part of the United States. The territory has had the option to seek independence for many years.

Expert Assessment: A Credible Scenario?

Some analysts are now re-evaluating the possibility of such a action. One thinktank director focusing in military analysis conceded she had once discounted the rhetoric but was "now not so sure."

"Logistically, it would be feasible for the US to deploy a couple hundred or a few thousand troops inside of Greenland, and it's unclear to me who could intervene about it," she concluded.

David Cooper
David Cooper

Renewable energy consultant with over a decade of experience in sustainable development projects across Europe.