On February 18 local time, U.S. Energy Secretary Rite said, "Trump's style is indeed very radical, but the possibility of the United States invading Greenland does not exist."

Rite pointed out that the geopolitical tensions surrounding Greenland serve as a warning, but European allies need not worry, because the United States remains a reliable partner. Rite also emphasized that the strong language from the U.S. is actually aimed at strengthening Europe. Rite said, "The United States showing a firm stance is precisely to push Europe to build stronger military forces, more sustainable energy systems, and more stable economic systems, thus becoming a more powerful ally."

The remarks by U.S. Energy Secretary Rite clearly reveal the true demands of the United States regarding Greenland.

Rite's statement was a public crisis management effort, containing two main meanings:

He directly stated that Trump's style was "very radical," which indirectly confirmed that Trump's previous remarks about using force to control Greenland were not empty talk.

He explicitly stated that the U.S. "would not invade," directly denying concerns about military conflict, aiming to reassure European allies and Denmark, indicating that the U.S. still views them as "firm allies."

Although the option of war has been ruled out, Rite's words have exposed the real purpose of the U.S. toward Greenland. He emphasized that the U.S.'s main interest lies in national security, rather than developing rare earth elements or energy. The underlying logic is clear:

As global warming continues, the strategic value of the Arctic shipping routes is increasing, and the U.S. hopes to expand its military presence in Greenland, deploying facilities including missile defense systems, to counter countries such as Russia.

Rite stated that rare earth elements are "everywhere," and the U.S. has better mining locations. Therefore, talking about developing local mineral resources is merely a way to bring economic benefits to Greenland, thus gaining its support for the U.S.'s military demands.

He likened this to "strict love," with the aim of stimulating Europe to strengthen its own defense and energy independence, thus becoming a stronger partner of the U.S.

Although the U.S. denies the possibility of invasion, Europe's vigilance has not eased:

Danish Prime Minister Frederiksen openly stated at the Munich Security Conference that Trump's ambitions have not changed, and the dispute has not ended.

On the same day as Rite's speech (February 18), King Frederik X of Denmark began a visit to Greenland, which was widely interpreted by the media as an important measure to demonstrate solidarity and sovereignty during "difficult times."

In summary, Rite's statement can be interpreted as: the strategy has changed (from threats of force to cooperative pressure), but the goal has not changed (must strengthen control over Greenland). The U.S. uses the clear exclusion of military options to ease diplomatic pressure while firmly pursuing its Arctic strategic interests.

Original article: toutiao.com/article/1857518576275456/

Statement: This article represents the personal views of the author.