Murmansk, Russia — Russian President Vladimir Putin has declared that the United States’ ambitions regarding Greenland are not mere political posturing, but rather part of a deeper geopolitical contest in the Arctic. Speaking at the Arctic Forum in Murmansk on Thursday, Putin underlined that the U.S. government’s plans to claim Greenland reflect serious strategic intentions.
“It’s obvious that the role and importance of the Arctic are growing — for Russia and the entire world. Unfortunately, so is the geopolitical competition and the fight for influence in the region,” said Putin, according to AFP and TASS sources.
Putin directly referenced past comments by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who openly discussed the idea of acquiring Greenland, an autonomous territory under Denmark. While some viewed the notion as eccentric, Putin stressed otherwise.
“The United States has serious long-term plans regarding Greenland. These ideas are rooted in history and are not just eccentric remarks from a new administration. This is a strategic agenda,” Putin stated.
Strategic Significance of Greenland
Greenland holds immense strategic value. Its location and natural resources make it a key asset in Arctic geopolitics, particularly as the region becomes more accessible due to climate change. The U.S. military base at Pituffik (Thule Air Base) is a major stronghold that reflects this strategic interest.
This week, U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance is leading a delegation to visit the Pituffik base. The group had initially planned cultural visits and a dog sled race event in Sisimiut, but these were canceled following political backlash from both Danish and Greenlandic authorities.
Trump has previously floated the idea of purchasing Greenland — and even hinted that force might not be off the table, citing national and international security concerns. Despite this, most Greenlanders support independence from Denmark but reject becoming part of the United States.
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