Dr. Walter Barbrick, founding director of the U.S. Naval War College Arctic Research Group and leading expert, said Greenland is “the linchpin of the national security of the United States and the future of the free world.” He pointed out its geopolitical and economic importance. He called for strengthening the partnership, calling it essential not only for its important role in defense and world order but also for “countering authoritarian influence” and protecting the interests of the United States and its allies.
In an exclusive interview with Breitbart News, Dr. Barbrick, former senior advisor to the 77th Secretary of the Navy and special representative for the Arctic region at the State Department, spoke about the importance of U.S. national security, economic resiliency, and the importance of this island region to the nation. underlined its unparalleled value. Emphasizing global stability, he pointed out that Greenland's importance as a base for defense and economic activity is only increasing.
“Greenland is central to America's national security and the future of the free world,” he said. “Its geographic location provides unparalleled strategic access to the Arctic, Atlantic, and Pacific oceans, allowing the United States to monitor and deter threats to North America and our NATO allies.”
Arctic defense and resources
Dr. Barbrick pointed out that in addition to Greenland's strategic location, it also has vast reserves of rare earth elements, which are essential for advanced technology and military systems.
“Economically, Greenland holds vast reserves of rare earth minerals that are essential to U.S. technological leadership and military preparedness,” he explained.
He also warned of the risks of allowing authoritarian powers like China and Russia to control Greenland's resources and influence.
“China's increasing undue influence in Greenland risks undermining Arctic stability, endangering U.S. interests, and weakening the rules-based international order,” he warned.
Highlighting Greenland's “invaluable” role in missile warning systems, operations in the Arctic, and ensuring freedom of navigation as new shipping lanes emerge, Dr. Verbrick said that strengthening cooperation between Greenland and Denmark is ” “This is essential to countering authoritarian influence and safeguarding the economic and security interests of both countries.” The United States and its allies will continue to do so for generations to come. ”
Strengthening partnerships
He recommended that the incoming Trump administration deepen ties with Greenland and Denmark through defense and security agreements modeled on those with Pacific island nations. He explained that such compactness would bring tangible benefits.
He explained that for Greenland, it would provide modern infrastructure, access to education, and investment in sustainable development, while protecting its cultural and environmental integrity. For the United States, he clarified, it would provide access to the vital Arctic, strengthened defense infrastructure and increased cooperation with allies in a region “that is rapidly becoming the focus of global competition.”
“A defense and security agreement between the United States, Greenland and Denmark…will protect Greenland from economic and political exploitation, while ensuring that Greenlanders can control their future,” he said. emphasized.
Policy recommendations
To increase its presence in the Arctic, Dr. Barbrick suggested several actionable steps to U.S. policymakers.
- Tripolar Arctic Framework: Establish formal cooperation agreements with Greenland and Denmark to address common defense and economic priorities.
- infrastructure investment: Develop modernized ports, airports and renewable energy projects in Greenland, promoting sustainable growth and integration with global markets.
- responsible resource partnership: Supporting the “green” extraction of rare earth elements in Greenland to benefit local communities and secure the U.S. supply chain.
- Education and cultural exchange: Strengthening long-term ties between the U.S. and Greenlandic communities through exchange programs and scientific collaboration.
The issue comes as Greenland's strategic importance is rapidly shifting focus amid evolving Arctic dynamics and growing international concerns.
On Sunday, President-elect Donald Trump I wrote “For purposes of national security and freedom around the world, the United States feels that ownership and control of Greenland is absolutely necessary.”
Greenland, an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, occupies a unique and strategic position in the Arctic Circle. The United States has long recognized Greenland's strategic importance, and its attention has increased in recent years due to increasing global competition in the Arctic from China and Russia.
Dr. Barbrick's insights highlight the need for a forward-thinking partnership that aligns Greenland's aspirations with the interests of the United States and its allies, ensuring stability and security in the Arctic for future generations.
Joshua Klein is a reporter for Breitbart News. Email jklein@breitbart.com. Follow him on Twitter @Joshua Klein.
