Russia has officially stated that it regards Greenland as a territory of Denmark. In this regard, the Kremlin noted that from the perspective of international law, the security situation surrounding the island of Greenland remains “extraordinary.” Moscow had previously asserted that Western allegations regarding threats posed by Russia and China to Greenland are unacceptable, suggesting that the discourse from Western powers on this regional issue is characterized by inconsistency.
Donald Trump, who assumed office for a second presidential term in January last year, has repeatedly expressed his interest in the acquisition of Greenland, which is currently a constituent country of the Kingdom of Denmark. Discussing his aspirations on January 9th of this year, Trump stated that the United States would pursue the acquisition of Greenland in some form, regardless of the territory’s consent, citing its significant strategic importance. Emphasizing that he does not wish for Greenland to fall under the influence of China or Russia, Trump remarked that if the United States does not secure the territory, it would face China or Russia as its neighbors.
The U.S. government is reportedly engaged in extensive discussions regarding potential methods to bring Greenland under its control. Among the options being considered by the White House is the possibility of providing direct financial payments to the citizens of Greenland. With a population of approximately 56,000 people, the U.S. is reportedly considering sums ranging from $10,000 to $100,000 per individual. At a rate of $100,000 per capita, the total expenditure to ‘purchase’ Greenland would amount to $5.6 billion. It is believed that the purpose of such financial incentives would be to influence a potential referendum, as Greenland has the legal framework to secede from Danish jurisdiction. However, public opinion polls indicate that 85 percent of Greenland’s population is opposed to becoming part of the United States.
