US Military Operation on Caracas Stokes Fears of Potential Greenland Takeover.

Recent US-led bombardment in the South American nation and the seizure of its leader have ignited apprehension regarding America's designs on Greenland. Members of the former president's base have reportedly set their sights on the vast island following the operations in the southern hemisphere.

Provocative Posts and Diplomatic Backlash

Only hours after the start of the Venezuelan campaign, a well-known conservative commentator, who is married to a high-ranking White House aide, shared a suggestive map. The picture depicted Greenland draped with the American flag, with the cryptic message: "COMING."

This overt threat to claim the mineral-rich land, which is a member of the North Atlantic alliance, triggered swift and firm condemnation from Danish officials.

"Denmark and the US are strong partners and should keep cooperate as such. American security is also Greenland’s and Denmark’s security," declared the Copenhagen's envoy to the United States. "Our nation and the United States work together to ensure security in the Arctic."

The ambassador further highlighted that Denmark had significantly boosted its defence spending recently, allocating a large amount specifically for Arctic and North Atlantic security. "And yes, we demand full respect for the sovereign borders of the Kingdom of Denmark," he added.

Political Moves and Strategic Interests

The situation were further exacerbated by the recent naming of a Southern governor as a representative to Greenland. The appointee had openly thanked the commander-in-chief, saying it was an "privilege" to work in a volunteer role to "bring Greenland into the US."

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

Ever since assuming office, the US president has consistently alarmed European allies with his stated desire in Greenland. The territory is considered vitally strategic for defence and potential mineral exploitation. It already houses the northernmost US air base.

Refusing to Rule Out Military Action

In a significant media interview, the president refused to rule out the use of armed action to acquire Greenland. This stance comes amid 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 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 Indigenous Resistance

In reaction to this constant "rhetoric" of intent, Danish intelligence service took the extraordinary step last month of labelling the United States as a "security risk."

The leaders of both Greenland delivered a joint and stern rebuke: "We have said it very clearly before. Now we say it again... You must not annex other countries."

Surveys in Greenland reveals a complex sentiment. While a overwhelming percentage of the island's inhabitants desire self-rule from Copenhagen, there is simultaneously scant appetite to become part of the United States. The island has had the option to declare independence for many years.

Expert View: A Credible Scenario?

Military analysts are now reconsidering the likelihood of such a move. One policy director specializing in military analysis conceded she had previously discounted the rhetoric but was "currently not so sure."

"Logistically, it would be feasible for the US to station a few hundred or a couple thousand soldiers on Greenland, and it's not clear to me which power could do anything about it," she observed.

Paul Morse
Paul Morse

A property investment strategist with over 15 years of experience in UK real estate markets and development projects.