U.S. Interest in Greenland: A Strategic Play in the Arctic
- Marcelo Serafim
- Jan 13
- 4 min read
Updated: Jan 22
In recent years, Greenland has emerged as a focal point in international geopolitics, particularly for the United States. This interest stems from Greenland's unique strategic location at the gateway to the Arctic, where the effects of climate change are making previously inaccessible areas viable for new shipping routes and resource exploration. The U.S. has long recognized the island's importance, dating back to World War II when it established military bases for defense and surveillance purposes.
The geopolitical relevance of Greenland has intensified as the Arctic ice continues to melt, revealing untapped natural resources like rare earth minerals, oil, and gas. These resources are crucial in a world increasingly reliant on technology, where rare earth elements are vital for everything from smartphones to military equipment. The U.S. aims to secure these resources to reduce dependency on foreign supply chains, notably from China, which has shown interest in Greenland for similar reasons.
The strategic location of Greenland also offers military advantages. It sits between North America and Europe, making it an ideal spot for monitoring Russian activities and controlling the Arctic's new shipping lanes. The Thule Air Base, located in Greenland, has been a pivotal asset for the U.S., serving roles in missile defense, early warning systems, and space operations. The U.S. has been investing in upgrading this facility to ensure it remains a key component of its Arctic strategy.
Moreover, Greenland's proximity to both Russia and the opening Arctic routes positions it as a critical chokepoint for naval operations and missile defense. Recent U.S. policies, including the Arctic Strategy Report of 2024, underscore a commitment to increase military and economic influence in the region. This is partly in response to Russia's aggressive posture in its Arctic territories and China's ambitions to expand its influence as a 'near-Arctic state'.
The conversation around Greenland escalated when President Donald Trump expressed interest in purchasing the island from Denmark in both 2019 and 2024. Although these proposals were met with derision and firm rejection by Danish and Greenlandic leaders, they highlighted the underlying geopolitical chess game in the Arctic. Trump’s rhetoric, while controversial, brought to light the strategic imperatives driving U.S. policy in the region.
On the diplomatic front, the U.S. has been actively engaging with Greenland, reopening its consulate after 67 years in 2020, which suggests a more nuanced approach to influence without outright acquisition. Economic support, infrastructure investments, and cooperation in environmental research are also part of this strategy, aiming to build a partnership rather than just seeking territorial control.
However, Greenland's push towards greater autonomy complicates U.S. ambitions. Greenland has its own parliament and in 2024 drafted its constitution, moving closer to independence from Denmark. This autonomy means Greenland can negotiate its partnerships independently, potentially diversifying its international relations beyond traditional allies like the U.S. and Denmark.
The U.S. must navigate this situation carefully, balancing its strategic interests with respect for Greenlandic self-determination. While the U.S. has historical ties and a defense agreement from 1951 that gives it significant military rights, any future relationship will have to be renegotiated in light of Greenland's evolving political status.
The interest in Greenland isn't just about military or economic leverage; it's also about setting precedents in international law, particularly concerning the sovereignty and rights of territories in the changing Arctic landscape. The U.S. actions in Greenland could influence how other Arctic disputes are resolved, affecting international relations in this increasingly contested region.
As global powers continue to vie for influence in the Arctic, Greenland's role will only grow in significance. The U.S. must strategize not only for immediate security and resource gains but also for long-term geopolitical stability in a region where climate change and international law intersect in complex ways.
Questions
Why is the US interested in Greenland?
How might the U.S.'s approach to Greenland influence other Arctic nations' policies?
In what ways could Greenland benefit from a strategic partnership with the U.S. without compromising its autonomy?
What are the implications of Greenland's move towards independence for its international relations?
How do the interests of Russia and China in Greenland compare to those of the U.S.?
Vocabulary Section:
Geopolitical - Relating to politics, especially international relations, as influenced by geographical factors.
Chokepoint - A strategic narrow passage or location that if controlled, can block or restrict movement.
Surveillance - The act of carefully watching or monitoring someone or something, especially for security purposes.
Autonomy - The right or condition of self-government, especially in a particular sphere.
Imperative - An essential or urgent thing; something that must be done.
Melting - The process of becoming liquid through heat; in this context, refers to the ice cap.
Inaccessibility - The state or quality of being difficult to reach or approach.
Untapped - Not yet used or exploited; not yet taken advantage of.
Dependency - The state of relying on or being controlled by someone or something else.
Rhetoric - The art of effective or persuasive speaking or writing, often used to describe political discourse.
Phrasal Verb:
Step up: To increase one's efforts or actions.
Meaning: To increase or intensify something, often in response to a challenge or need.
Examples:
The U.S. is stepping up its Arctic presence as tensions rise.
The company decided to step up production to meet the holiday demand.
American Idiom:
Have a dog in the fight: To have a personal stake or interest in the outcome of a situation.
Meaning: To be personally invested or have a vested interest in the resolution of a matter.
Example: The U.S. clearly has a dog in the fight when it comes to the strategic importance of Greenland.
English Grammar Tip:
Use of Articles with Geographic Names:
Generally, do not use 'the' with countries, but 'the' is used with plural country names or those with "kingdom," "republic," or "states" in the name. Greenland does not require 'the', but 'the' is used with names like 'The United States' or 'The Netherlands'.
Examples:
Greenland is becoming increasingly important.
The United States has a significant interest in Greenland.
Listening
Homework Proposal:
Research and write a 500-word essay on the following topic: "How has the melting of Arctic ice influenced the strategic importance of Greenland for the United States?" Your essay should cover:
Historical context of U.S. interest in Greenland.
The impact of climate change on Greenland's accessibility and resources.
Current U.S. strategic interests in Greenland.
Potential future scenarios for Greenland-U.S. relations given Greenland's autonomy movement.
Include at least three sources to support your arguments, citing them in your essay
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