Greenland is a matter between Denmark, US: Russian President Putin

New Delhi, Mar 28: Russian President Vladimir Putin recently stated that Greenland is a matter between Denmark and the US, and that Russia has no involvement. His comment in an article in BBC comes as tensions grow over control of the Arctic, a region rich in natural resources and strategic military importance. Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark, has become a point of interest for the US due to its location in the Arctic and its potential for military and economic expansion. US President Donald Trump suggested buying Greenland in 2019, highlighting America’s long-term interest in the region.

The US sees Greenland as a key part of its Arctic strategy, which includes countering Russian and Chinese influence. Denmark has vowed to defend Greenland’s sovereignty, making it clear that the territory is not for sale.

However, the US continues to seek ways to increase its presence, including military cooperation and economic investments in Greenland.

Speaking at the Arctic Forum in Murmansk, Putin acknowledged the growing competition in the Arctic but distanced Russia from the Greenland issue. Instead of criticising the US, as he often does, he emphasised economic cooperation with Washington in the Arctic. This marks a shift in Russia’s approach, suggesting that Moscow might be open to negotiations with the US on Arctic affairs. Despite Putin’s claim of neutrality on Greenland, Russia has been aggressively expanding its presence in the Arctic. Moscow has built new military bases, strengthened its navy, and pursued economic projects in the region. By signalling cooperation with the US, Russia may be trying to ease tensions and attract American investment while still maintaining its dominance in the Arctic. For global political observers, Putin’s remarks reflect a changing dynamic in US-Russia relations. While the two countries remain adversaries on many issues, especially the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, Russia sees an opportunity for economic collaboration in the Arctic. This could be an attempt to gain diplomatic leverage or to create divisions among Western allies. At the same time, Denmark and other NATO countries will be closely watching how the US handles its Arctic ambitions. If Washington pushes too hard for control in Greenland, it could create tensions with its allies, even as it seeks to counter Russian influence. Putin’s statement on Greenland may seem neutral, but it is part of a larger geopolitical game. The Arctic is becoming a battleground for economic and military power, with the US, Russia, and other nations vying for control. While Russia downplays its involvement in Greenland, its actions in the Arctic suggest it will continue to assert itself in the region, whether through military expansion, economic deals, or diplomatic manoeuvring.