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Kurt Volker, former U.S. ambassador to NATO, argues that aggressive moves to annex Greenland risk damaging America’s credibility as a global leader. While acknowledging Greenland’s strategic importance in Arctic security, Volker emphasizes that the U.S. can achieve its goals through partnerships rather than territorial absorption, stating there’s “no reason” to pursue annexation when Greenland wants independence from Denmark.
The Trump administration’s approach—highlighting Greenland’s role in countering Russian aggression and Chinese expansion—has intensified geopolitical tensions. Trump’s recent video emphasizing WWII-era U.S.-Greenland bonds and Vice President Vance’s visit to Pituffik Space Base aim to frame the island as critical for missile defense and Arctic dominance. However, Volker warns that provocative rhetoric undermines trust with European allies like Denmark, which has rebuffed Trump’s proposals and reaffirmed Greenland’s sovereignty.
Critics argue Trump’s fixation on annexation distracts from practical opportunities. Greenland holds 39 minerals vital for U.S. defense technology, but American firms hold just one mining license there, lagging behind Canadian and British companies. Meanwhile, Putin has exploited the discord, claiming Trump’s Greenland agenda validates Russia’s own Arctic militarization.
Volker’s broader critique aligns with his NATO-focused perspective: alliances thrive on mutual respect, not transactional threats. His past condemnation of Trump’s suggestion to let Russia attack “delinquent” NATO members underscores this principle. With Greenlanders overwhelmingly rejecting U.S. control, Volker stresses that respecting their self-determination is key to securing long-term cooperation.
