New Delhi: The re-election of Donald Trump and his “Greater America” mission have reignited debates about Greenland’s sovereignty. The U.S. President has openly shared his vision to incorporate Greenland into the United States and has hinted at potential military action. This report delves into the seriousness of the American threat to Greenland.
America’s Strategic Military Presence in Greenland
The U.S. already has a strong military foothold in Greenland. The Thule Air Base—now known as the Pituffik Space Force Base—is the U.S.‘s northernmost military installation, located in northwest Greenland. This base plays a pivotal role in America’s global strategic operations.
Over 600 U.S. military personnel are stationed here. It serves as a hub for the U.S. Air Force and Space Force operations in the Arctic.
Thule Base Capabilities:
1. Advanced Radar Systems:
Integral to the U.S.’s missile defence system, capable of detecting ballistic missiles.
2. Satellite Communications:
A vital communication centre for U.S. military and space missions.
3. Weapons and Equipment:
Equipped with advanced anti-missile systems, long-range radar, and cutting-edge surveillance technology. It also has facilities to deploy special forces and combat aircraft.
4. Other Bases:
There are speculations about undisclosed U.S. bases in Greenland, including underground facilities confirmed by NASA. The Thule Base is connected with other U.S. bases in the region, such as the Keflavik Base in Iceland.
Regional Support for U.S. Operations
To secure control over Greenland, the U.S. could leverage several regional military bases:
1. Keflavik Air Base, Iceland:
Located near Greenland, this base houses U.S. Navy and Air Force units, offering strategic advantage in the Arctic and North Atlantic regions.
2. Norway:
The U.S. has stationed troops and equipment in Norway, which could be used for Greenland operations.
3. Canada:
Numerous American bases in Canada and the NORAD agreement provide logistical support for any U.S. military campaign targeting Greenland.
How the U.S. Could Seize Greenland
If the U.S. decides to annex Greenland, it could execute the operation in the following stages:
1. Strategic Airstrikes and Cyber Warfare:
Strikes launched from the Thule Base and other nearby installations could neutralize Danish and Greenlandic defence systems. Cyberattacks would disrupt communication and infrastructure.
2. Special Forces Deployment:
U.S. Special Forces could take control of key locations and establish authority over Greenland’s administration.
3. Naval Blockade:
A naval blockade around Greenland would prevent Denmark or NATO from intervening.
4. Permanent Control:
Through the Thule Base, the U.S. could secure Greenland’s strategic and economic resources, ensuring lasting control.
This entire operation could be completed in as little as two hours, especially if Denmark and NATO do not actively resist.
Historical Context: U.S.-Denmark Agreement on Greenland
During World War II in 1941, Denmark and the U.S. signed an agreement allowing the U.S. to establish military bases in Greenland for its protection. This agreement evolved under NATO in 1951, granting the U.S. a permanent military presence to counter Soviet influence in the Arctic.
Greenland and Denmark’s Resistance
Greenland’s Prime Minister Múte B. Egede dismissed Trump’s proposal as a “never-ending fantasy.”
Greenland’s government stated:
“Our sovereignty and freedom are non-negotiable. We will defend our rights with the support of Denmark and international bodies.”
Denmark has also expressed strong opposition, with its Prime Minister asserting:
“We strongly condemn the U.S. threat and will protect Greenland with NATO’s assistance.”
What Role Could NATO and the EU Play?
Despite the rhetoric, NATO and the EU are unlikely to take significant action against the U.S.:
As a U.S.-dominated alliance, NATO may avoid confronting the U.S. directly. If a similar move had been made by Russia, NATO would likely have intervened militarily. The European Union might resort to diplomatic protests but is unlikely to impose stringent economic sanctions or military action against the U.S.
