US considers deeper involvement of Greenland in its sphere of influence, inspired by Pacific agreements

WASHINGTON/CODAY - The United States is considering strategically strengthening its influence in Greenland through a special agreement similar to those it maintains with some Pacific island nations, Reuters reported on Friday, citing two anonymous U.S. officials and another person familiar with the negotiations. The aim is to consolidate the US geopolitical presence in the Arctic, which is growing in importance because of global warming and the growing interest of major powers in strategic raw materials and new shipping routes.

The plan, which is currently being discussed only in the inner circle of the US administration, could involve the creation of a framework similar to that used by the US in the so-called Compact of Free Association (COFA) - agreements with countries such as the Marshall Islands, Micronesia or Palau. These treaties provide the U.S. with military access and responsibility for the defense of the states in question, in exchange for financial support and special immigration privileges for citizens of those countries.

Greenland, an autonomous part of the Kingdom of Denmark, has become the object of increased attention from world powers in recent years. The Arctic region is rich in minerals such as iron ore, uranium and rare earths, and offers new shipping routes thanks to the melting of glaciers. The United States has long operated the Thule air base in Greenland, which plays an important role in the missile warning system and in monitoring satellite activity.

The idea of deeper integration of Greenland into the American sphere of influence is not new. Already in 2019, President Donald Trump attracted attention when he proposed the possibility of buying the island, which the Danish government at the time strongly rejected. The new US approach could thus become a more diplomatic alternative - less controversial, but just as strategically important. It is not yet clear how Denmark and the Greenlandic government would react to such a proposal. Greenland has extensive autonomy, especially in economic policy and internal affairs, but defence and foreign policy matters still fall under the Danish government. However, it can be assumed that any plan would have to consult not only Copenhagen but also the local government in Nuuk.

The news comes at a time when the Arctic is facing increasing militarisation. Russia has significantly increased its military presence in the region and China is showing interest in the 'Polar Silk Road'. The US is responding with new investments and diplomatic initiatives in the region. A US State Department spokesman declined to comment directly on the matter, but stressed that the US considers Greenland an "important partner" and wants to "continue to cooperate on the basis of mutual respect and shared interests".

Analysts warn that, despite the potential benefits, the US effort could cause tensions in transatlantic relations. As a NATO member state, Denmark is a key ally of Washington, but it is also sensitive to any attempts to weaken its sovereignty in autonomous areas.

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