The US has long supported security interests in Greenland. After Nazi Germany occupied mainland Denmark during World War II, the US invaded Greenland, setting up military and radio stations throughout the territory.
After the war, American troops remained in Greenland. Pitufik Space Base, formerly known as Thule Air Base, has since been operated by the United States.
In 1951, a defense agreement with Denmark gave the US a significant role in the defense of the territory, including the right to build and maintain military bases.
“If Russia were to send missiles toward the United States, the shortest path for nuclear weapons would be through the North Pole and Greenland,” said Mark Jacobsen, an associate professor at the Royal Danish Defense College.
“That’s why Pitufik Space Base is so important to US defense.”
China and Russia have begun to build up their military capabilities in the Arctic in recent years, according to an article by the Arctic Institute. The document urged the US to further develop its presence in the Arctic to counter its adversaries.
On Wednesday, Danish Foreign Minister Lars Loke Rasmussen said Denmark was open to discussions with the US, adding that Washington had “legitimate” interests in the region.
“We see Russia arming itself. We see China starting to show interest as well,” Rasmussen said.
Trump is also likely interested in the mining potential of Greenland’s vast landmass, Mr. Jacobsen added.
“Of particular interest today are the rare earth minerals that have not yet been mined but are found in southern Greenland. They are very important for all kinds of technology, from mobile phones to wind turbines.”
