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Congressman Waltz emphasizes Greenland's strategic importance for US security

Denmark's PM meets business leaders amid growing tensions over Greenland
Denmark's PM meets business leaders amid growing tensions over Greenland
January 09, 2025 01:46 PM GMT+03:00

American Congressman Mike Waltz has emphasized the strategic importance of Greenland for U.S. national security, following remarks from President-elect Donald Trump suggesting that the U.S. should take control of the Arctic island.

Trump, who previously floated the idea of purchasing Greenland, has refused to rule out military or economic measures to secure it.

Why it matters

Greenland’s geostrategic location and resource wealth make it a significant focus in the Arctic, a region increasingly contested by global powers such as Russia and China.

Trump’s renewed interest in Greenland signals heightened U.S. attention to Arctic security and resources, potentially sparking tensions with Denmark and NATO allies.

Details

  • Greenland’s strategic importance:
    • Greenland straddles the shortest route between Europe and North America and plays a critical role in the U.S. ballistic missile early-warning system.
    • The Arctic island holds vast reserves of critical minerals, oil, and gas, making it a target of interest for major powers.
  • U.S. concerns:
    • Congressman Waltz highlighted Russia’s dominance in the Arctic, with over 60 icebreakers compared to the U.S.’s two and China’s increasing Arctic presence.
    • “This is about critical minerals. This is about natural resources. This is about national security,” Waltz said.
Congressman Waltz emphizes Greenland's strategic importance for US security
Prime Minister of Greenland Mute Egede (AFP Photo)
  • Greenland’s response:
    • Greenland’s government acknowledged changing Arctic security dynamics and expressed willingness to work with the incoming Trump administration and NATO allies to ensure regional stability.
    • Prime Minister Mute Egede reiterated Greenland is not for sale.
Congressman Waltz emphasizes Greenland's strategic importance for US security
Congressman Waltz emphasizes Greenland's strategic importance for US security
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken delivers remarks as France's Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Noel Barrot (R) looks on after their meeting at the Quai d'Orsay in Paris, on Jan. 8, 2025. (AFP Photo)

Reactions

Zoom out

The Arctic’s growing importance in global security and resource competition has intensified geopolitical rivalries.

While Trump’s Greenland proposal is unlikely to gain traction, it underscores the U.S.’s strategic recalibration in the region, especially as Arctic ice recedes and new opportunities emerge.

NATO allies must navigate these dynamics carefully to maintain stability and unity in the region.

January 09, 2025 01:46 PM GMT+03:00
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