Greenland, the world’s largest island, has become a strategic focal point in international geopolitics, primarily because of its geographic position and abundant rare resources. Former U.S. President Donald Trump’s remarks highlight the ongoing and often contentious geopolitical debate over Greenland’s control and the strategic importance of its rare resources.

Greenland is situated between the Arctic and North Atlantic Oceans, making it pivotal for military and trade routes. Its proximity to the melting Arctic ice caps reveals new shipping lanes and access to abundant natural resources, including rare earth minerals critical for modern technology. America’s strategic interest in Greenland is not novel. The Thule Air Base, located there, has long been vital for the U.S. military—serving as an early warning hub for polar air and space threats. Trump’s comments reflect a long-standing strategic calculus to ensure the U.S. maintains a foothold in the Arctic region amidst mounting global competition, primarily from Russia and China, who have expanded their Arctic activities. 

Denmark, under whose sovereignty Greenland falls, has bolstered defences and diplomatic measures in response to perceived U.S. ambitions. Denmark sees Greenland as a semi-autonomous region with its own government dealing with international relations under Danish oversight, and any changes in jurisdiction are approached with caution due to historical complexities and the sensitivities of Greenland’s indigenous population. 

These developments align with a broader narrative of Arctic geopolitics where nations seek to capitalize on warming trends. As the ice recedes, the Arctic is becoming increasingly accessible, prompting not just economic opportunities but geopolitical manoeuvring. This situation brings with it environmental concerns, especially from indigenous groups whose livelihoods intertwine with these lands. 

The renewed American focus on Greenland serves as a microcosm for a larger strategic interest in the Arctic. This interest is further complicated by climate change, global resource scarcity, and international norms governing sovereign territories. 

Perspectives 

Perspective 1: The strategic importance of Greenland is rooted in its geopolitical location and resource potential. According to geopolitical analysts from The Arctic Institute, Greenland is key to controlling emerging Arctic sea lanes and gaining access to energy and mineral resources that are becoming more accessible due to melting ice. The Brookings Institution has argued that Greenland’s position provides significant advantages for military surveillance and defence capabilities, which are essential for countries seeking to enhance their Arctic presence.

Sources: 
The Arctic Institute
Brookings

Perspective 2: Denmark faces a diplomatic challenge with increased U.S. interest in Greenland. The Danish Institute for International Studies highlights concerns over the impact of external interest on Greenland’s autonomy and indigenous rights. Politiken, a leading Danish daily, discusses Denmark’s approach to integrating Greenland into its national framework while respecting local governance, emphasizing Denmark’s need to manage foreign relations without undermining Greenland’s social fabric.

Sources: 
DIIS
Politiken

Perspective 3: The environmental implications of strategic developments in Greenland are profound. The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) warns of the ecological risks associated with heightened geopolitical activities, including increased shipping and rare resource extraction. The Indigenous Peoples’ Council highlights the potential threats to traditional lifestyles, emphasizing that international political dynamics often overlook indigenous knowledge and the importance of environmental stewardship for the rare resources of Greenland.

Sources: 
World Wildlife
Cultural Survival