Incoming US President Donald Trump has declared that taking ownership of Greenland is an “absolute necessity” once he takes office in January.
This bold move is part of a larger plan to expand the US’ foothold across the globe. But what’s behind this sudden interest in the autonomous Danish territory?
The Strategic Importance of Greenland
Located in the Arctic, Greenland is becoming increasingly significant due to climate change. Melting ice caps are opening new shipping routes and creating opportunities for resource exploration. The island is rich in natural resources, including rare earth minerals, oil, gas, and other untapped resources vital for industries like technology and defense. It’s no wonder Trump wants the island under US control.
A Foothold in the Arctic
The US already has a military presence on the island, with the Thule Air Base playing a critical role in US missile warning and space surveillance systems. Owning the island would potentially enhance US military capabilities in the region. And with countries like Russia and China expanding their presence in the Arctic, acquiring Greenland would strengthen US influence in the region and counterbalance these powers.
Reclaiming the Panama Canal
But Trump’s ambitions don’t stop at Greenland. He’s also set his sights on regaining control of the Panama Canal, which connects the Atlantic Ocean with the Pacific Ocean. The President-elect claims that Panama has not treated the US “fairly” since the nation ceded control in 1999 and that the fees being charged by Panama are “ridiculous” and “highly unfair.”
A Global Disrupter-in-Chief
With his Panama and Greenland plans, Trump has the world guessing once again whether he’s serious or not. By challenging the sovereignty of some of Washington’s closest allies, Trump has underscored his credentials as global disrupter-in-chief. His comments have renewed fears that Trump will end up being harsher on US friends than he is on adversaries like Russia and China.
The Art of the Deal or a Serious Threat?
But there are also suspicions that Trump is looking for leverage as part of the “art of the deal” and that his comments are just a headline-grabbing stunt. “It’s hard to tell how much of this he really wants, and how much is the latest sound bite that will be heard around the world,” said Frank Sesno, a professor at George Washington University and former White House correspondent.
A Message for China?
Trump’s harsh treatment of US allies stands in stark contrast to his repeated praise for the leaders of US foes. But there may be method behind his rhetoric. “Maybe the message is for China” when Trump talks about buying Greenland, said Stephanie Pezard, senior political scientist with the Rand Corporation. China’s growing presence in the Arctic and its ties with Russia are “something that the US is really worried about.”
Reality Check
While Trump’s plans may be ambitious, they may not be entirely feasible. Any US plan to “buy” Greenland would be unfeasible “not just in international law but more broadly in the global order that the US has been trying to uphold,” said Pezard. Only time will tell if Trump’s bold plans will become a reality or remain just a pipe dream.