Polar Geopolitics - Arctic and Antarctic analysis Explaining the America First motivation for acquiring Greenland with former Trump administration official Alexander B. Gray
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Jan 18, 2026 
In this enlightening conversation, Alexander B. Gray, a former Deputy Assistant to the President and current CEO of American Global Strategies, delves into the U.S. interest in acquiring Greenland. He discusses the geopolitical risks of Chinese influence in an independent Greenland and emphasizes the urgency of ensuring Arctic security. Gray proposes a hemispheric defense strategy while addressing the balance between resource needs and security concerns. He also advocates for a robust America First policy in Antarctica, linking the strategic importance of both polar regions.
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Greenland Mirrors Historic Great-Power Concerns
- Alexander B. Gray links historic U.S. interest in Greenland to recurring great-power threats and strategic geography.
- He warns substituting China into past concerns makes Greenland a present strategic priority for the U.S.
2018 Airport Attempt Triggered U.S. Alarm
- Gray recounts a 2018 Chinese attempt to acquire an airport in Greenland that was blocked with U.S. and Danish cooperation.
- That episode sparked his concern about future Chinese infrastructure access if Greenland becomes independent.
Build Institutional Frameworks Now
- Gray recommends institutional options: U.S. insular status or a compact of free association to secure access and denial rights.
- He also suggests economic inducements like trade deal membership or a revenue-based basic income.