It’s been a long-standing Kremlin strategy to drive a permanent wedge between the United States and Europe, dividing and weakening its traditional adversaries in the West.

Russian officials and media are reacting to President Donald Trump’s push to acquire Greenland with a mix of glee and caution.

Russian president invokes 1867 Alaska deal to frame a hypothetical US purchase of Greenland, while accusing Denmark of harsh colonial rule over the Arctic island.

Trump has argued that the Arctic island is critical for U.S. security given threats posed by Russia as well as China.

President Trump defended inviting Vladimir Putin to his proposed Board of Peace, despite earlier concerns about Russia's intentions in Greenland. Trump stated the board prioritizes leaders who 'get the job done' and possess significant influence,

Russian President Vladimir Putin distanced himself from the spat over Greenland between the US, Denmark and other countries in Europe at a meeting of the National Security Council in Moscow on Wednesday.

Former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev – who now sits as the deputy chair of Russia’s security council – warned Trump he is “running out of time” for his bid to “go down in history” by taking over the Arctic island.

Donald Trump has been repeatedly insisting that Greenland, a sovereign territory of Denmark, come under the United States. While Trump’s demands have drawn global attention, the real contest for Arctic dominance has been underway for decades — and Russia is far ahead.