According to reports from The Economist, the USA is considering proposing the so-called Pact of Free Association. This is a model of cooperation that the Americans have already successfully used with small countries in the Pacific Ocean, such as Micronesia, Palau or the Marshall Islands.
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What plans does the Trump administration have for Greenland?
What is the so-called Pact of Free Association?
What consequences will the agreement have for Greenland?
What actions is the US taking against Denmark in the context of Greenland?
What would such an agreement involve? In short:
- Financial support – The United States would guarantee constant financial aid for the island, which would significantly increase the standard of living of its inhabitants,
- Defense under US control – defense matters would be delegated to Washington,
- Internal autonomy – Greenland would retain full independence in decisions regarding its domestic policy.
The dispute over Greenland. “This could change the balance of power”
Experts cited by “The Economist” indicate that the Trump administration's actions have a deeper meaning. Washington wants on purpose sharpen the differences between Copenhagen and Nuuk (the capital of Greenland) and fuel separatist sentiments among the island's inhabitants.
The aim is to conclude an agreement bypassing the Danish government, which raises great concern and is causing panic among European leaders.
Although “The Economist” assesses the scenario of “total annexation” of the island as unlikely, the fight for influence is becoming more and more open.
Currently There is already an American military base in Greenland. Although current agreements with Denmark do not impose strict limits on the number of troops stationed there, any significant increase in the contingent would require consent from Copenhagen.
The United States has already attempted to negotiate directly with the Greenlandic authorities, but – according to sources – they were refused. Nevertheless, work on the new draft agreement continues, which shows that the Arctic island remains one of the priorities of American foreign policy.
