US Military Operation on Venezuela Stokes Fears of Potential Greenland Acquisition.

The recent US-led bombardment in the South American nation and the detention of its leader have renewed apprehension regarding America's ambitions on the Arctic territory. Followers of the ex-president's political movement have reportedly set their sights on the resource-rich landmass following the operations in South America.

Provocative Messages and Official Outrage

Only a short time following the initiation of the Venezuelan campaign, a well-known conservative commentator, who is the spouse of a senior presidential adviser, shared a suggestive image. The graphic depicted Greenland covered in the American flag, with the single-word caption: "SOON."

This blatant suggestion to annex the mineral-rich land, which is a part of the NATO alliance, triggered immediate and strong criticism from Denmark's representatives.

"Denmark and the US are close allies and should keep cooperate as such. American security is also Greenland’s and Denmark’s security," stated the Copenhagen's envoy to the United States. "Our nation and the United States work together to guarantee security in the Arctic."

The ambassador further pointed out that the kingdom had significantly boosted its military budget this year, allocating a substantial amount expressly for Arctic and regional defence. "And yes, we demand full respect for the territorial integrity of the Kingdom of Denmark," he added.

Administrative Moves and Strategic Goals

The situation were further complicated by the recent appointment of a Southern governor as a representative to Greenland. The appointee had openly expressed gratitude to the commander-in-chief, saying it was an "honour" to serve in a volunteer capacity to "make Greenland a part of the US."

After the events in Venezuela, this envoy praised the president's actions, connecting it to the wider "war on drugs."

Ever since returning to office, the American leader has consistently unnerved European allies with his expressed interest in Greenland. The island is viewed as critically important for national security and potential mineral exploitation. It already hosts the most northerly US military base.

Refusing to Rule Out Military Action

In a significant media interview, the leader refused to rule out the resorting to military force to gain control of Greenland. This stance comes during intensifying global competition in the polar region. "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 cherish them... But we need that for international security."

Mounting Friction and Local Resistance

In response to this constant "drumbeat" of intent, Danish intelligence service took the unprecedented step last month of labelling the United States as a "potential threat."

The prime ministers of Denmark and Greenland issued a joint and forceful rebuke: "We have said it very clearly before. Now we say it again... You must not take over other countries."

Public opinion in Greenland shows a nuanced sentiment. While a overwhelming percentage of the island's residents seek independence from Copenhagen, there is simultaneously scant desire to become part of the United States. The island has had the option to seek sovereignty for over a decade.

Expert View: A Plausible Scenario?

Some experts are now re-evaluating the possibility of such a move. One thinktank director specializing in military analysis admitted she had once dismissed the rhetoric but was "now not so sure."

"Logistically, it would be feasible for the US to deploy a couple hundred or a few thousand troops inside of Greenland, and it's not clear to me which power could do anything about it," she observed.