Azerbaijan and the North: Intersection of Interests in the New World Order

Azerbaijan's role in the evolving global order highlights its strategic links to northern regions like Greenland and the Arctic. Geopolitical shifts, resource conflicts, and cultural ties underscore the nation's position in shaping international dynamics. The intersection of regional and global interests emphasizes Azerbaijan's importance in navigating the complexities of the new world order.

Rustam Taghizade
Rustam Taghizade
President-elect of the United States Donald Trump speaking with attendees at the 2024 AmericaFest at the Phoenix Convention Center in Phoenix, Arizona / Photo: Gage Skidmore from Surprise, AZ, United States of America / Source: Wikimedia Commons

The President of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, recently stated that the old world order is fading into history, making way for a new one. This assertion is supported by numerous events unfolding globally. One such event is the discussion surrounding the status of Greenland, a self-governing territory within the Kingdom of Denmark. U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has expressed his intention to pursue the annexation of Greenland into the United States.

Trump previously raised this issue during his first presidential term, but the current situation appears more serious. Donald Trump Jr. recently visited Greenland, meeting with the territory’s Prime Minister, Múte Egede. In his New Year’s address, Egede emphasized Greenland’s aspirations for independence, stating that both historical and modern circumstances highlight the necessity of overcoming the “shackles of colonialism.” He noted that cooperation with Denmark has not led to full equality, making it time to take the next step toward self-determination.

While Greenland formally has the right to declare independence, doing so could challenge Denmark’s sovereignty over not only Greenland but also the Faroe Islands. In recent years, Denmark has shown a desire to solidify its influence in the region. Changes to the national coat of arms, where symbols of the Faroe Islands and Greenland—a silver ram and a polar bear—have been made more prominent, reflect this intent. Additionally, Denmark has increased its military presence in Greenland.

The specific steps the Trump administration might take regarding Greenland remain unclear until he assumes office. However, the situation is causing concern not only in Copenhagen but also in Brussels. The European Union appears unprepared for such developments, and experts are exploring various scenarios. Denmark’s increased military presence on the island suggests preparations for potential challenges, though the question arises: who are these measures aimed at? It seems unlikely that Denmark would openly confront the U.S., yet Trump’s strategic interest in the region remains significant.

Greenland holds critical geostrategic importance. During World War II, its airfields geostrategic importance a key role in Allied strategies. Today, the island remains a vital node for transatlantic routes. Its geographic proximity to North America and the cultural ties between the indigenous Inuit and the native peoples of the North American continent further strengthen its relevance.

In addition to Greenland, the question of geostrategic importance also extends to the Faroe Islands. These regions may seek external support, recalling other independence movements such as Catalonia in 2017 or Iraqi Kurdistan. These examples demonstrate the crucial role of external backing in such endeavors.

Some experts also consider Russia’s potential interest in strengthening its Arctic influence. Strategically, the Arctic is vital for Russia, and any change in Greenland’s status might be seen as an opportunity for Moscow to bolster its presence in the region. Russia’s past actions, including the use of underwater infrastructure and increased military geostrategic importance in the Arctic, underscore its strategic priorities.

While these events might seem distant from Azerbaijan, their regional significance should not be underestimated. Russian national security documents cite the Arctic and the Caspian Sea as potential conflict zones over resources. The strategic connection between these regions is highlighted in statements by high-ranking officials, such as Nikolai Patrushev, who mentioned the Arctic alongside the Caspian and Baltic Seas in his remarks.

Furthermore, cultural and educational initiatives in Azerbaijan, such as those conducted by the Russian Geographical Society, reflect an underlying interest in Arctic affairs. Discussions regarding territories like Svalbard, which is under Norwegian sovereignty, demonstrate Russia’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its Arctic position.

In conclusion, developments involving Greenland and Denmark transcend local concerns, carrying broader international implications. The situation in the Arctic continues to influence political dynamics in other regions, including the South Caucasus.

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