Arctic - Territory of Dialogue Forum
"U.S. Greenland Plan Has Deep Historical Roots"
Russian President Vladimir Putin said on the 27th (local time) that U.S. President Donald Trump's plan to incorporate Greenland into U.S. territory is serious and should be viewed from a geopolitical perspective.
According to TASS and RIA Novosti, President Putin said at the "Arctic - Territory of Dialogue" forum held in Murmansk, Russia's northwesternmost city, that day, regarding President Trump's plan to incorporate Greenland, "It is a mistake to think that this is just absurd rhetoric from the new U.S. administration."
President Putin added, "We are talking about serious plans by the U.S. concerning Greenland," and "These plans have long historical roots."
He argued that President Trump's claim to incorporate Greenland should be seen in the context of intensifying geopolitical competition surrounding the Arctic.
President Putin explained, "It is clear that the role and importance of the Arctic are increasing in Russia and the rest of the world," and "Unfortunately, geopolitical competition and struggles to secure a foothold in this region are also intensifying."
President Putin also said, "Russia faces major challenges in the Arctic," and "We must strengthen transportation and logistics infrastructure while mandatorily protecting the sensitive Arctic ecosystem, and expand economic and business opportunities."
Despite Denmark's opposition, President Trump has repeatedly asserted his intention to incorporate Greenland into the United States. If Greenland becomes U.S. territory, it is highly likely that U.S. involvement will continue in the future. There is analysis that NATO's influence in the Arctic region will strengthen, potentially threatening Russia.
President Putin said, "In general, NATO countries are increasingly designating the far north as a potential foothold for conflict," and "Russia has never threatened anyone in the Arctic, but we will closely monitor developments and respond accordingly."
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