Russia Monitors US Claims Over Greenland Amid Diplomatic Tensions**

The Kremlin is closely observing the evolving situation regarding US President-elect Donald Trump's controversial claims on Greenland, prompting strong responses from European leaders over the territorial sovereignty of the Danish territory.**

In the wake of escalating tensions surrounding US President-elect Donald Trump's remarks about Greenland, the Kremlin has stepped in to voice its concerns. Trump's insistence on potential military action to claim the territory, which is an autonomous part of Denmark, has a strategic bearing on Arctic geopolitics. Russian spokesman Dmitry Peskov emphasized that the Arctic region lies within Russia's "sphere of national and strategic interests" and stated the nation's commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the area.

European leaders have reacted strongly to Trump's comments. EU foreign affairs chief Kaja Kallas released a statement underscoring the importance of respecting the "territorial integrity and sovereignty of Greenland." German Chancellor Olaf Scholz echoed these sentiments, asserting that "borders must not be moved by force."

Demonstrating a worrisome call for economic security, Trump remarked that both Denmark and the Panama Canal were crucial for US interests, leaving open the possibility of using economic or military force to gain control over them. He further critiqued the border with Canada, labeling it "artificial."

Peskov stated that while the situation is primarily a matter for the US, Denmark, and associated nations, Russia remains watchful of what he characterized as a "rather dramatic" situation. The outgoing Secretary of State Antony Blinken attempted to quell fears about the comments, declaring, "The idea is... obviously not a good one, but maybe more important, it’s obviously one that’s not going to happen."

Greenland, home to 56,000 residents and vital military bases, also boasts vast untapped mineral and oil resources. The region's leaders, including Prime Minister Mute Egede, have strongly rejected any notion that it could be for sale, emphasizing that decisions about Greenland's future rest with its own people.

UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy acknowledged the destabilizing nature of Trump's rhetoric, even as he attempted to downplay its seriousness. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has advocated for a continuous strong US partnership as tensions rise in the North Atlantic, particularly concerning Russia's ambitions.

Meanwhile, the European Commission dismissed Trump's threats as "extremely theoretical" and "wildly hypothetical," emphasizing Greenland's protection under the mutual assistance obligations of EU member states.

Amidst all the political discourse, discussions about Greenland's sovereignty continue. Last week, Greenland's leader voiced the desire to break free from "the shackles of colonialism," with calls for a "free association agreement" between Greenland and the US for trade and defense purposes.

Trump's allies have reinforced his vision, claiming that securing Greenland is part of a broader strategy to enhance US leadership on the global stage. Republican Congressman Mike Walz highlighted the larger implications for the Arctic, warning against treating Greenland as merely a backwater while securing its resources from potential Russian claims.