US Actions and International Law
The actions of President Trump reveal a marked disregard for international law and multilateralism, highlighted by a military strike on Venezuela and the proposal to capture President Nicolás Maduro.
Greenland Controversy
- President Trump expressed intentions to acquire Greenland, an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, suggesting it could be taken by force.
- This behavior reflects classical realist views where great powers pursue self-interest, as Greenland's strategic location becomes a power maximization object rather than cooperation.
Historical Context
- Greenland has been of strategic interest to the US since the 1860s, with formal defense agreements established during the Second World War.
- Trump's 2019 attempt to purchase Greenland revived historical ambitions, escalating them into potential coercive actions.
Strategic Importance of Greenland
- Greenland is strategically positioned along key Arctic sea lanes and hosts critical early-warning and missile-defense infrastructure.
- The island contains vast reserves of rare earths and minerals, making it a focal point in great-power competition.
Implications for International Order
- Any coercive acquisition of Greenland would violate Article 2(4) of the UN Charter, undermine US moral leadership, and destabilize the North Atlantic through military confrontation.
- Such actions could erode norms against territorial acquisition by force, inviting similar actions by other powers.
Impact on NATO
- NATO's credibility could be undermined as a collective security system if a member threatens another member's territory.
- The alliance's core promise of defending sovereignty may lose meaning, leading smaller allies to seek alternative security arrangements.
Global Implications
- The US could lose trust with allies, weakening security cooperation and encouraging states to explore other defense partnerships.
- China might exploit these rifts by presenting itself as a partner that respects sovereignty.
Recommendations
The US should address security concerns through cooperation and agreements with Denmark, avoiding coercive and threatening approaches.
