President Vladimir Putin commented on U.S. interest in Greenland, stating that President Trump’s push for control over the territory was not surprising, as the U.S. has long sought control of the resource-rich region.

Putin highlighted that the U.S. had previously attempted to buy Greenland after World War II and emphasized the strategic value of the territory in the Arctic.

He also noted Russia’s concerns about NATO’s growing presence in the region, pledging to strengthen Russia’s military capabilities in response, The Hill has reported.

Despite this, Putin expressed openness to international cooperation in the Arctic, including potential joint energy ventures with the U.S.

Written by B.C. Begley