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Why Greenland Matters to the World

Greenland, DenmarkSaturday, January 17, 2026
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A Vast Island of Global Interest

Greenland, a vast island in the Arctic, is becoming a hotspot for global powers. Its strategic location and rich resources make it a prized possession. The US, under President Donald Trump, has shown interest in acquiring Greenland, seeing it as a key to their defense and economic interests.

Size and Population

  • Size: The world's largest island, even bigger than the entire European Union.
  • Population: Only about 56,000 people, with most living in the five largest settlements, including the capital, Nuuk.

Climate Change and Its Impacts

  • Melting Ice: The Greenland Ice Sheet has been shrinking for nearly three decades.
  • Global Impact: Contributing to global sea level rise and opening up new trade routes.
  • Resource Revelation: Revealing valuable resources beneath the ice.

Rich Natural Resources

Greenland boasts at least 25 of the 34 raw materials considered critical by the European Union, including:

  • Iron ore
  • Graphite
  • Rare earth elements

These resources are crucial for technology and military applications.

Strategic Importance

  • US Perspective: Sees Greenland as a strategic asset due to its proximity to Canada.
  • Existing Presence: The US already operates a space base there.
  • Global Interest: Countries like Russia and China are also eyeing Greenland's potential.

Future Uncertainties

  • Demographic Challenge: An aging population expected to decline.
  • Global Significance: Strategic importance and rich resources make it a key player in global politics.
  • Future Watch: The world will be observing as Greenland navigates its future.

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