By SCM Staff Writer
VLADIMIR Putin has stuck the boot into Denmark, sensationally claiming the Nordic nation treats Greenland as a “colony.”
The Russian hardman waded into the row over the world’s largest island, accusing the Danes of “harsh” treatment of the territory.
In a rare move that will raise eyebrows in Washington, the Kremlin chief appeared to give a nod to American interests, insisting the US has the “dosh” to pull off a historic buyout.
Speaking at a press conference, the Russian President didn’t hold back on his Arctic neighbours.
”Denmark has always treated Greenland as a colony,” Putin barked. “It has treated it quite harshly, but that is a whole other topic.”
Despite the stinging critique, Vlad was quick to claim he wasn’t looking for a scrap, adding: “This is clearly none of our business—I think they’ll be able to deal with this on their own.”
The Russian leader even played the role of accountant, comparing a potential Greenland deal to the US acquisition of Alaska from Russia in 1867.
After “running the numbers,” Putin shrugged off the eye-watering price tag such a deal would command in the 21st century.
”However much Greenland might cost, I think the US can handle even this amount,” he said.
While Russia has its own massive interests in the Arctic, Putin insisted that the current spat over Greenland’s sovereignty “does not concern Russia.”
The story follows recurring international interest in the strategic value of Greenland.
In 2019, Donald Trump famously proposed that the US should buy Greenland, a suggestion that was met with a blunt “not for sale” from the Danish government and led to a brief diplomatic spat.
Resources: Greenland is rich in rare earth minerals and untapped oil and gas reserves.
Military: The US already maintains the Pituffik Space Base (formerly Thule Air Base) in Greenland, which is vital for ballistic missile early warning systems.
The Arctic Race: As polar ice melts, new shipping routes are opening up. Russia, the US, and China are all vying for influence in the region.
Putin’s reference to Alaska is a nod to the 1867 “Seward’s Folly,” where the US purchased Alaska from the Russian Empire for $7.2 million.
By comparing the two, Putin is highlighting that the US has a history of expanding its territory through massive land deals.
