In a surprising twist amid escalating tensions over Greenland, Russian President Vladimir Putin has firmly stated that the Arctic island’s future is not a concern for Moscow. President Donald Trump’s persistent push to acquire the self-governing Danish territory has sparked global debate, but Putin downplayed any Russian involvement during a key security meeting.
Speaking at the Kremlin on Wednesday to Russia’s National Security Council, Putin criticized Denmark’s historical treatment of Greenland, likening it to harsh colonial rule. ‘Denmark has always treated Greenland like a colony, and if not said harshly, quite strictly,’ he remarked, highlighting centuries of oversight since the 18th century when Denmark colonized the island.
Trump’s overtures for Greenland, which boasts vast mineral resources and strategic Arctic positioning, have met fierce resistance from Denmark. Copenhagen granted Greenland home rule in 1979, yet retains control over defense and foreign affairs. The U.S. maintains a significant presence with Thule Air Base on the northwest coast, established during World War II.
Putin emphasized that Russia has no stake in the matter. ‘This is certainly not our concern. I think they will sort it out among themselves,’ he said, referencing past U.S. purchases like Alaska from Russia in 1867 and the U.S. Virgin Islands from Denmark in 1916. He even speculated that Greenland’s value could reach $1 billion, well within America’s financial reach.
Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov echoed this stance, denying any Moscow plans to intervene. Meanwhile, Denmark’s Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen reiterated in Davos that Copenhagen will never cede control. As speculation swirls about superpower rivalries in the melting Arctic, Putin’s comments aim to defuse tensions and clarify Russia’s neutral position.
The episode underscores shifting geopolitics, with climate change unlocking Greenland’s resources and military significance. While Trump views it as vital for U.S. security, Putin’s detachment signals Russia’s focus elsewhere amid its own Arctic ambitions.
