Donald Trump's intention to gain control over Greenland as the President of the United States could have unpredictable consequences for the geopolitical landscape, potentially favoring Russia.
As noted by Sky News, this move may bolster the Kremlin's expansionist policies currently being pursued in Ukraine and could even serve as a justification for legitimizing the Russian invasion. The Kremlin has already expressed concern regarding Trump's statements, emphasizing the Arctic's significance to Russia's national interests.
"We are closely monitoring the rather dramatic developments, but so far, thank God, it remains at the level of statements," said Dmitry Peskov, the press secretary for President Putin.
Russia possesses the longest Arctic coastline in the world, which, along with vast reserves of oil and gas, makes this region critically important for the country’s energy security. Additionally, the melting ice due to climate change is making the Northern Sea Route increasingly viable, enhancing the geopolitical importance of the Arctic for Moscow. At the same time, the publication notes that Russia is the only Arctic state not part of NATO, and "the melting ice means it is increasingly viewing its Arctic border as a vulnerable area."
If the United States were to genuinely lay claim to Greenland, Russia might perceive this as a provocation. Furthermore, experts believe this action could lead to a rift within NATO: "instead of fighting as one, they might end up battling among themselves."
From the Kremlin's perspective, U.S. claims over Greenland could serve as a rationale for justifying Russia's aggression in Ukraine, the publication concludes.
Source: news.sky.