Russian President Vladimir Putin today threw his considerable support behind U.S. President Donald Trump’s widely criticized plan to annex Greenland. This is an important endorsement, because it plays right into Putin’s long standing efforts to attack American global dominance. Putin, of course, is in favor of the annexation proposal. He goes on to denounce the postwar order as outdated, and a bludgeon wielded against the U.S.
During a recent statement, Putin highlighted historical precedents, noting that the United States had considered purchasing Greenland as far back as the 1960s. In doing so, he noted the congressional defeat of that deal at the time. He stressed there will always be a long-term American interest in the region. Putin cited U.S. plans as far back as 1910, calling these plans “serious” with “longstanding historical roots.”
In his speech, Putin laid out an extraordinary persuasive justification for Trump’s proposal. He noted that every major land purchase, including Alaska in 1867, was initially laughed at before being redeemed in history.
“Let me remind you that by 1868, the purchase of Alaska was ridiculed in American newspapers,” – Vladimir Putin
Putin approves Trump’s idea about Greenland. This support is indicative of his larger worldview, an outlook that is broadly skeptical of the transnational organizations and alliances that have formed since World War II. He claimed that these institutions have outlived their original purpose. Instead, they have come to function as weapons turned against the U.S.
Putin’s remarks also drew parallels between Trump’s transactional approach to international relations and his own philosophy that countries should focus on their sovereign interests rather than meddling in global affairs. His statements revealed that Russia is dead-set on pursuing and defending its interests in the Arctic. He underscored the strategic emphasis by singling out Finland and Sweden as “threatening” great powers.
While commenting on the postwar global order, Putin echoed sentiments shared by some U.S. officials who believe it has become a burden rather than a benefit.
“The postwar global order is not just obsolete, it is now a weapon being used against us,” – Marco Rubio
In addition to voicing support for Trump’s Greenland plan, Putin crafted a historical narrative that appeared to conveniently align with Russia’s territorial aspirations, particularly concerning Ukraine. His remarks about the U.S. purchase of Alaska showed Russia’s continued seller’s remorse from 1867. They vividly reminded us all that territorial acquisitions can make strange bedfellows and force political changes in perceptions over time.
Putin concluded that historical acquisitions like the one under President Andrew Johnson have ultimately been justified, suggesting a similar outlook for Greenland. Still, he insisted that these issues are the concern of the states involved and not Russia’s business to weigh in on.
“As for Greenland, this is an issue that concerns two specific states and has nothing to do with us,” – Vladimir Putin