The Kremlin is closely monitoring U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s recent rhetoric concerning Greenland, with spokesman Dmitry Peskov expressing concern over the dramatic nature of the statements. Trump had suggested that military action could be an option to take control of the mineral-rich Arctic island, which is an autonomous territory of Denmark. Additionally, he had threatened to impose high tariffs on Denmark if it refused to cede Greenland.
Peskov, in a statement on Thursday, acknowledged the situation but expressed relief that it remained in the realm of rhetoric for now. “We are very closely watching this rather dramatic development of the situation, which is, thank God, at the level of statements so far,” he said. He added that Russia’s priority was maintaining peace and stability in the region, emphasising that Moscow was ready to cooperate with all parties to ensure this.
The Kremlin spokesman also drew parallels between the situation and Russia’s controversial annexation of four Ukrainian regions in 2022, suggesting that the people of Greenland should be consulted on the matter in a similar manner. This remark echoes the disputed referendums that Russia conducted in those regions, which were condemned by Ukraine and Western countries as illegal and manipulated.
Greenland, known for its vast natural resources, remains an autonomous territory of Denmark but is also associated with the European Union. Trump’s comments, which also included threats of military intervention in the Panama Canal and economic leverage against Canada, have raised concerns globally, though they currently seem to be confined to political posturing.
In response, Peskov reinforced the need for diplomatic efforts to ensure that tensions in the region did not escalate further while cautioning against any provocative actions that might threaten regional peace.
