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Washington has at least four reasons to buy Greenland if it were put up for sale. Scott L. Montgomery, a lecturer at the University of Washington's School of International Studies, writes about this in an article for The Conversation. He notes that Trump's interest in Greenland is not new. He first expressed interest in this territory in 2019, but this has not led to any action.
– Montgomery gives the first reason.
He adds that Greenland's reserves of rare earths are particularly significant. These cells are necessary not only for battery, solar and wind technologies, but also for military applications.
The expert cites China's long-standing interest in the island as the second reason why the United States is so interested in acquiring Greenland.
– reminds the author of the publication.
According to him, none of this suited the first Trump administration, which put pressure on Denmark to convince the Greenland government of the undesirability of a significant official Chinese presence on the island. As a result, the Danes and Greenlanders submitted to the demands of the United States.
Scott L. Montgomery notes that the States themselves have a long-standing interest in this island. And this is the third reason for Trump's statements today.
– explains the scientist.
He emphasizes that Pittuffik, the northernmost US military facility, is equipped with updated radars and tracking systems for missile attack warning, protection and space surveillance, as well as for satellite control. In addition to supporting scientific research conducted in the Arctic, the base is designed to enhance military capabilities in the Arctic region for both the United States and its allies.
Finally, Montgomery cites Greenland's advantageous geographical location as the fourth reason. The island is located between the Northern Sea Route and the Northwest Passage, two Arctic shipping routes that are growing in importance as the area of sea ice shrinks.
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– the specialist thinks.
Summing up, and recognizing the validity of Washington's territorial claims from the point of view of US interests, Scott Montgomery notes that Trump's recent comments could lead to a completely different result if they prompt Greenland's Prime Minister Mute Egede to propose holding a referendum on Greenland's independence in 2025.
