American Military Operation on Venezuela Stokes Concerns of Future Greenland Acquisition.

Recent US-led military action in the South American nation and the capture of its leader have sparked apprehension regarding Washington's ambitions on Greenland. Members of the former president's political movement have reportedly turned their attention to the vast island following the operations in South America.

Provocative Posts and Official Backlash

Only a short time following the commencement of the Venezuelan operation, a well-known right-wing podcaster, who is the spouse of a high-ranking presidential adviser, posted a symbolic image. The picture depicted Greenland draped with the American flag, with the cryptic message: "COMING."

This overt suggestion to annex the mineral-rich land, which is a member of the North Atlantic alliance, triggered immediate and firm condemnation from Denmark's representatives.

"Denmark and the US are strong partners and should continue to work together as such. US security is equally Greenland’s and our security," declared the Copenhagen's envoy to the United States. "Our nation and the United States collaborate to guarantee security in the North."

The ambassador additionally pointed out that the kingdom had substantially boosted its military budget recently, earmarking a substantial amount specifically for Northern and regional defence. "Furthermore, we expect complete recognition for the territorial integrity of the our realm," he emphasized.

Political Moves and Strategic Interests

The situation were further complicated by the previous naming of a Southern governor as a representative to Greenland. The appointee had publicly expressed gratitude to the president, stating it was an "honour" to serve in a unpaid capacity to "make Greenland a part of the US."

Following the military action in Venezuela, this representative praised the administration's decisive move, connecting it to the wider "fight against narcotics."

Ever since returning to office, the American leader has repeatedly alarmed transatlantic allies with his stated desire in Greenland. The territory is viewed as critically important for defence and potential mineral exploitation. It currently hosts the northernmost US air base.

Refusing to Rule Out Force

In a significant media interview, the president declined to rule out the use of armed action to gain control of Greenland. This position comes amid intensifying global competition 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 remarked.

He characterized 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."

Mounting Friction and Local Resistance

In reaction to this persistent "drumbeat" of threats, Danish intelligence service took the extraordinary step last month of classifying the United States as a "security risk."

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

Public opinion in Greenland shows a nuanced sentiment. While a vast majority of the territory's inhabitants seek self-rule from Denmark, there is simultaneously scant desire to become part of the United States. The island has had the legal right to declare independence for many years.

Expert View: A Credible Scenario?

Military experts are now reconsidering the possibility of such a action. One policy analyst focusing in military analysis admitted she had once discounted the sabre-rattling but was "now not so sure."

"Logistically, it would be feasible for the US to station a couple hundred or a couple thousand troops on Greenland, and it's unclear to me which power could do anything about it," she concluded.