Dmitry Medvedev, deputy chairman of Russia’s Security Council, dismissed Western allegations of a Russian or Chinese threat to Greenland as fabricated “horror stories,” accusing Western leaders of repeating such claims to justify their own actions, according to Reuters.
“This so-called threat from Russia and the People’s Republic of China is simply a horror story,” Medvedev told Reuters.
He noted that the current development poses a profound test to the unity of the Atlantic alliance.
“Perhaps everything will go according to a calmer scenario before military intervention and fighting within the NATO bloc,” Medvedev added.
Trump has recently intensified his campaign to take control of Greenland from fellow NATO ally Denmark, warning of punitive tariffs against nations that oppose his attempts.
In response, the European Union began to consider retaliatory measures, sparking concerns over a fresh transatlantic trade clash.
“We need Greenland from the standpoint of national security, and Denmark is not going to be able to do it,” Trump said in response to a reporter’s question.
However, he has dropped his threats to impose 10% tariffs on allies resisting his Greenland ambitions following a meeting with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.
Greenland
Greenland represents an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark.
Through its own parliament and administration, the island governs itself, while Copenhagen continues to oversee foreign affairs and defense.
Trump argued that securing the mineral-rich island is vital to US national security as Russia and China are increasing their military activity in the Arctic.
In recent years, both nations have increased military operations in the Arctic. However, neither has staked a claim to the vast icy island.
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