Key facts
- Texas-based Greenland Energy claims it has permits to drill for oil in Greenland.
- Greenland's government disputes these claims, stating no active exploration permissions are in place.
- US special envoy Jeff Landry suggested Greenland could export 2 million barrels of oil daily and advocated for a "deal" with the US.
- Greenland Energy plans to use existing oil exploration licenses covering Jameson Land.
- The proposed drilling sites are located in a Ramsar Convention protected wetland area.
- Greenland Energy has attracted investors with alleged ties to Donald Trump, including Kenneth Griffin and Carol Craig.
A Texas-based oil company, Greenland Energy, has announced plans to drill for oil in Greenland, asserting it possesses the necessary permits. However, Greenland's resources ministry has refuted these claims, stating that no active permissions for exploration or preparatory activities are in place. This dispute highlights potential conflict between the company, which has alleged ties to figures associated with Donald Trump, and the Greenlandic authorities.
Robert Price, representing Greenland Energy, informed residents of Ittoqqortoormiit about the venture, which involves bringing drilling equipment to the territory. Despite the lack of official approval, the company has chartered a vessel to transport its equipment, with drilling anticipated to commence in October. Halliburton, a major contractor, is set to manage the logistics.
US special envoy Jeff Landry has publicly supported the idea of a Greenlandic oil find, suggesting the territory could export millions of barrels daily and advocating for a "deal" that could integrate Greenland more closely with the US. These sentiments align with Donald Trump's past expressions of interest in acquiring Greenland.
Greenland Energy aims to leverage existing exploration licenses for Jameson Land, a region that includes areas protected under the Ramsar Convention for their wetlands and wildlife. Local officials, such as Avaaraq Olsen, have expressed fear that American oil interests could align with annexation plans, disrupting the territory's peaceful environment.
Greenland halted new oil exploration licenses in 2021 due to environmental concerns, though some existing licenses remain valid. Greenland Energy is seeking to operate under these licenses, proposing a significant investment in exchange for a majority stake. The company's executive chair has acknowledged that communications about the project have caused confusion.
Further complicating the situation are the alleged connections of Greenland Energy's backers to Donald Trump. These include investments from billionaire Kenneth Griffin and the addition of Carol Craig to the board, whose defense tech company is involved with Trump's missile defense system plans. These developments raise concerns among Greenlanders about the potential geopolitical implications.