Kremlin hints at backing for US ambitions in Arctic
Vladimir Putin commented on Donald Trump's plans regarding the annexation of Greenland, pointing to the "historical roots" of the USA in this region. According to observers, this may suggest that the Kremlin supports American ambitions in the Arctic.
What do you need to know?
- Vladimir Putin, during the forum in Murmansk, suggested that the United States has "serious plans" concerning Greenland.
- He emphasised that these plans have "historical roots."
- Donald Trump argued that the people of Greenland themselves are asking the USA for protection, and his administration is ready to act.
- On Friday the American delegation will visit the island.
Putin talks about the "historical roots" of the USA in Greenland
During the forum in Murmansk, Vladimir Putin referred to Donald Trump's plans concerning Greenland. He suggested that the United States has "serious" plans connected to this region.
Moreover, Putin emphasised that these plans have "deep historical roots."
Trump had already spoken about plans to take control of Greenland during his first term, from 2017 to 2021. At the very beginning of the current term, he returned to this issue.
Commentators assess that this statement may suggest that Russia is aware of and perhaps even supports American ambitions in the Arctic. Although no direct declarations were made, the suggestion of "historical roots" can be interpreted as an understanding of American interests in this region.
Trump claims Greenlanders are asking the USA for help
"We’re dealing with a lot of people from Greenland that would like to see something happen with respect to them being properly protected and properly taken care of," Trump argued, answering journalists' questions during a recent cabinet meeting.
Trump stated that it was "many many people, some officials too."
If the plans for the annexation of Greenland by the USA indeed have "long-standing historical roots," as Putin suggests, this may mean that the United States will strive to increase its presence in the Arctic. Such a situation could affect the geopolitical balance in the region, especially in the context of growing interest in the Arctic from Russia and China.
Why is Greenland so important?
Trump emphasised that, in his opinion, the presence of the USA in Greenland is necessary in the face of the activity of ships from China and Russia in the region. "If we don't have Greenland, we can't have great international security," added the president.
These statements were made in the context of Vice President J.D. Vance's planned visit to the island, who, as he stated, is "to assess" its security situation. Vance arrives uninvited, and no local authorities have expressed a willingness to meet with him.
According to the White House announcement, on Friday, Vice President J.D. Vance, accompanied by his wife Usha, will visit the Pituffik base in Greenland. At the same time, the previously announced visit of the US delegation led by the second lady has been cancelled.
