Russia and America’s Arctic Ambitions: A New Challenge for Europe | World News

Two significant events this week are bound to evoke a profound sense of concern for Greenland and its European allies.

To the West, US Vice President JD Vance is en route, dispatched by a president who is openly discussing annexation.

Meanwhile, from the East, a speech from a Russian leader suggests potential plans to divide the Arctic and its abundant mineral resources with Moscow’s new allies in Washington.

In a closely monitored address, Vladimir Putin appeared to endorse Donald Trump’s ambitions regarding Greenland, stating that they were “serious” and “entrenched in deep historical roots.”

Kremlin representatives went a step further, indicating Russia’s willingness to collaborate with the United States to develop the Arctic through “joint investment.”

The Arctic represents a tremendous opportunity, especially as its vast mineral resources become more available due to climate change.

Russia is strategically positioned to capitalize on this with numerous bases and ports surrounding the Arctic Circle.

However, Mr. Putin cautioned that “NATO countries in general are increasingly designating the Far North as a potential conflict zone,”

suggesting a warning to European nations to take heed.

Another Challenge for Europe

The looming threat of Russia and America potentially collaborating to exploit the Arctic adds yet another layer of complexity for Europe in this new Trumpian geopolitical landscape, with Greenland caught in the crossfire.

Mr. Trump has expressed his belief that American annexation of Greenland “will happen.”

He stated this with casual indifference in front of NATO’s Secretary General at the White House, as if seizing another alliance member’s territory were completely normal.

Amazingly, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte did not contest the idea.

Read more:
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Donald Trump says he thinks US will annex Greenland

Both President Trump and his Vice President suggest that the United States requires Greenland for security reasons.

This claim seems questionable, as there are no hostile naval forces patrolling the Arctic region, regardless of what they assert.

Moreover, the US already possesses a military base there and could request to establish more.

Mr. Vance also suggests that Denmark has neglected Greenland. However, Denmark subsidizes the territory to the tune of £480 million annually.

In reality, what the Trump administration appears to seek in Greenland mirrors its aspirations in Ukraine: access to mineral wealth.

During our recent visit, Greenlanders expressed to Sky News that Mr. Trump’s threats come across as a form of coercion—akin to a shakedown.

A menacing intimidation intended to secure material benefits.

There is no desire for an American takeover among the Greenland population, nor is there enthusiasm for the Vice President and his wife.

Reports indicate US officials were going door to door this week, inquiring if anyone would like to meet the Second Lady of the United States. None expressed interest.

The Vances have had to scale back their visit and will now only go to the US base at Pittufik.

Nonetheless, it seems the Trump administration is resolute in its ambition to acquire more territory, with Greenland currently at the forefront.

Its president may have been swayed by Mr. Putin to consider sharing the world with Russia, whatever implications that holds for America’s allies.

This is a challenge they must confront.