Greenland, the world’s largest island, has long been a focal point of geopolitical interest — and for good reason. Its vast natural resources, strategic location in the Arctic, and emerging economic potential position it as a crucial asset in global affairs. For the United States, Greenland represents an indispensable gateway to the Arctic, a front line in the evolving competition with China and Russia, and an opportunity to strengthen ties with an autonomous Greenland on the path to independence.
As the Arctic rapidly transforms due to climate change and increased human activity, the race to control this resource-rich territory is accelerating. A renewed strategic commitment to Greenland could help “Make Greenland Great Again” as America’s first stop in the Arctic, ensuring mutual benefits that respect Greenlandic sovereignty and indigenous interests.
Greenland’s Strategic Importance to America
Greenland’s geographic position is unmatched. Situated between North America and Europe, it controls critical maritime routes through the Arctic, which serve as a polar ice route connecting multiple continents. The island acts as a strategic sentinel overlooking the North Atlantic and the Arctic Ocean, offering unparalleled vantage points for military, scientific, and economic activities.
For the U.S., Greenland is more than just a remote landmass; it is a strategic outpost essential for early missile warning systems, satellite tracking, and space surveillance operations. The Thule Air Base, America’s northernmost military installation, plays a vital role in defending North America and NATO allies. As geopolitical tensions escalate, particularly with increased Russian military activity in the Arctic and China’s self-designation as a “near-Arctic state,” Greenland’s importance has never been more critical.
“The Arctic is warming at twice the global average rate, transforming Greenland into one of the most strategically important territories on Earth.”
Natural Resources and Economic Potential
Beneath Greenland’s ice sheets lie some of the world’s most valuable untapped resources. Greenland ranks eighth globally for rare earth reserves with 1.5 million tons, including two of the world’s largest deposits: Kvanefjeld and Tanbreez. The island possesses significant deposits of rare earth elements, uranium, zinc, lead, iron ore, and potentially massive oil and gas reserves. Rare earth minerals, in particular, are essential for modern technology—from smartphones to electric vehicles to advanced military systems. Currently, China dominates the global rare earth supply chain, making Greenland’s deposits a matter of economic and national security.
The melting Arctic ice, while posing environmental challenges, is also opening new economic opportunities. Shipping routes through the Northwest Passage and along Greenland’s coast could dramatically reduce transit times between Asia, North America, and Europe. Investment in Greenland’s infrastructure and port facilities would position the island as a critical hub for Arctic commerce and logistics.
The development of Arctic real estate and commercial ventures represents another frontier of economic growth. As Greenland modernizes its infrastructure, opportunities for sustainable development, tourism, and renewable energy projects are expanding rapidly.
“Greenland possesses two of the largest rare earth deposits in the world, making it a critical counterweight to China’s current dominance of the global supply chain.”
Greenland’s Path to Independence and Self-Determination
Greenland’s relationship with Denmark has evolved significantly over the past decades. As an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, Greenland has gradually assumed greater control over its domestic affairs. Many Greenlanders aspire to full independence, but economic dependence on Danish subsidies—which constitute approximately 20% of Greenland’s GDP—remains a significant obstacle.
A strategic American partnership could help bridge this gap by providing investment, infrastructure development, and economic opportunities that respect Greenlandic autonomy. Rather than seeking territorial acquisition, the United States should focus on mutually beneficial agreements that support Greenland’s journey toward self-determination while addressing American strategic interests.
This approach would include substantial investment in education, healthcare, renewable energy, and sustainable development projects. Programs facilitating housing development and mortgage initiatives could improve living standards while building long-term economic partnerships. Supporting Greenlandic language preservation, cultural programs, and indigenous rights would demonstrate respect for local communities and build trust.
Countering Chinese and Russian Influence
In recent years, China has increased its interest in Greenland through proposed investments in mining operations, airports, and telecommunications infrastructure. In its 2018 Arctic Policy, China identified itself as a “near-Arctic state,” claiming rights to utilize resources and develop shipping lanes in the Arctic. Russia, meanwhile, has been expanding its Arctic military presence, reopening Soviet-era bases, and conducting regular exercises in the region—including the 2024 Ocean-2024 drill involving 400 warships and 120 aircraft. Both nations view the Arctic as a strategic frontier for resource extraction, shipping routes, and military positioning.
The United States and its NATO allies cannot afford to cede this strategic space. A comprehensive Greenland strategy would involve enhanced military cooperation, expanded presence at Thule Air Base, joint maritime operations, and collaborative Arctic research initiatives. Economic engagement would provide Greenland with alternatives to Chinese investment that might come with strings attached or threaten Western security interests.
“Russia’s 2024 Ocean-2024 military exercise in the Arctic was the largest in the region’s history, underscoring the urgent need for American strategic engagement in Greenland.”
Environmental Stewardship and Climate Leadership
Any American engagement with Greenland must prioritize environmental responsibility. The Arctic is warming at twice the global average rate, with profound implications for Greenland’s ice sheet, ecosystems, and indigenous communities. Resource development must be conducted sustainably, with rigorous environmental protections and respect for traditional hunting and fishing grounds.
The United States should position itself as a leader in Arctic climate research, partnering with Greenlandic institutions to monitor ice loss, study climate impacts, and develop adaptation strategies. Investment in renewable energy—particularly hydropower, which Greenland already utilizes—would support sustainable development while reducing carbon emissions.
A Framework for Strategic Partnership
A successful Greenland strategy would involve multiple components working in concert. Defense cooperation would include upgraded facilities, enhanced surveillance capabilities, and joint training exercises. Economic development would focus on sustainable resource extraction, infrastructure modernization, and tourism development. Cultural and educational exchanges would build people-to-people connections and mutual understanding.
Critically, any partnership must be negotiated transparently with Greenlandic leadership and respect the island’s growing autonomy. The United States should work through diplomatic channels, consulting with both Greenland’s Naalakkersuisut (government) and Danish authorities while recognizing Greenland’s right to negotiate international agreements independently in areas where it has assumed competence.
Continuing Coverage
- Arctic Real Estate Boom: Investment Opportunities in Greenland’s Emerging Market
- Greenland Mortgage Programs: Financing the Future of Arctic Housing
- U.S. Military Expansion in the Arctic: Strategic Positioning for the 21st Century
- Rare Earth Minerals: Why Greenland Holds the Key to Technology Independence
- China’s Arctic Strategy: Competition for Greenland’s Resources
