US Military Operation on Venezuela Raises Concerns of Future Greenland Acquisition.

The latest American bombardment in the South American nation and the detention of its president have ignited unease regarding America's designs on Greenland. Supporters of the former president's political movement have reportedly focused on the resource-rich landmass in the wake of the operations in South America.

Inflammatory Messages and Diplomatic Backlash

Only a short time after the commencement of the Venezuelan campaign, a well-known conservative podcaster, who is married to a high-ranking White House adviser, posted a symbolic image. The graphic depicted Greenland draped with the stars and stripes, accompanied by single-word caption: "SOON."

This overt threat to absorb the mineral-rich region, which is a member of the NATO alliance, triggered swift and firm condemnation from Denmark's representatives.

"Denmark and the US are close allies and should continue to work together as such. American security is equally Greenland’s and Denmark’s security," declared the Danish ambassador to the United States. "The Kingdom of Denmark and the United States collaborate to ensure security in the North."

The diplomat further highlighted that Denmark had substantially boosted its military budget recently, allocating a large amount specifically for Arctic and North Atlantic defence. "Furthermore, we demand full respect for the territorial integrity of the our realm," he added.

Administrative Moves and Geopolitical Goals

The tensions were further exacerbated by the previous appointment of a US state governor as a representative to Greenland. The appointee had openly expressed gratitude to the commander-in-chief, stating it was an "privilege" to serve in a unpaid capacity to "bring Greenland into the US."

After the military action in Venezuela, this envoy praised the president's decisive move, connecting it to the broader "fight against narcotics."

Ever since assuming office, the American leader has consistently alarmed transatlantic allies with his stated interest in Greenland. The territory is viewed as vitally important for defence and future mineral exploitation. It currently hosts the northernmost US air base.

Leaving the Door Open to Force

In a notable media appearance, the leader refused to rule out the use of armed action to gain control of Greenland. This position comes during growing great-power competition in the Arctic. "I don't rule it out. I don't say I'm going to do it, but I don't rule out anything... We need Greenland very badly," he stated.

He described Greenland as having a "very small amount of people, which we’ll look after, and we’ll value them... But we need that for international security."

Growing Tensions and Local Resistance

In reaction to this persistent "drumbeat" of threats, Denmark's security agency took the unprecedented step last month of labelling the United States as a "security risk."

The leaders of Denmark and Greenland delivered a joint and forceful rebuke: "We have said it very clearly before. Now we say it again... You cannot annex other countries."

Surveys in Greenland shows a nuanced sentiment. While a overwhelming percentage of the island's inhabitants desire self-rule from Copenhagen, there is simultaneously scant appetite to become part of the United States. The island has had the option to declare independence for many years.

Expert Assessment: A Plausible Threat?

Some experts are now re-evaluating the likelihood of such a action. One thinktank director focusing in military analysis conceded she had once dismissed the sabre-rattling but was "currently not so sure."

"It wouldn't be that hard for the US to station a few hundred or a couple thousand troops on Greenland, and it's not clear to me which power could do anything about it," she observed.