The Arctic has become a hot spot for global security, and experts are now pointing to a surprising area that matters far more to the United States than Greenland. While President Donald Trump has repeatedly pushed for control of Greenland, experts argue that the real strategic hotspot lies much closer to home—Alaska, particularly the Bering Sea.
Alaska’s Bering Sea: America’s Hidden Security Frontline
Donald Trump has made headlines with his insistence on acquiring Greenland, citing national security concerns and calling it “ours” for defense purposes. At Davos, he argued that owning Greenland is necessary to defend the Arctic and even hinted at military action if negotiations fail. However, security specialists say that Greenland may not be the key to U.S. protection in the Arctic.
Instead, the focus should be on Alaska. The Bering Sea, located roughly 4,800 kilometers from Greenland, is directly under U.S. control and is considered a far more critical region for national security. Experts warn that failure to strengthen defenses here could expose America to immediate threats from Russia and China.
“‘China will eat them up’: Trump escalates Canada clash over Greenland missile defense”
Both countries have recognized the strategic importance of the area, as evidenced by Russian and Chinese bombers spotted near Alaska in 2024. Additionally, Chinese and Russian naval forces have conducted military exercises in the Bering Sea in the past, according to reports by The New York Times.
Alaska is rich in natural resources, including oil and critical minerals that are vital for the U.S. economy and national security. Control over these resources is a key reason the Bering Sea has become a focal point for global military attention. Analysts stress that while Greenland is geographically distant and politically complex, Alaska is already part of U.S. territory and offers a ready-made line of defense.
Melting Ice Makes Alaska Even More Strategic
Climate change is reshaping the Arctic, and melting ice caps are turning once-frozen regions into navigable waters. This transformation is creating new sea lanes, allowing ships to travel faster and reducing global shipping times. As the Arctic becomes more accessible, the Bering Sea’s strategic value increases dramatically.
Experts point out that while NATO assets protect the North Atlantic route to the Arctic, the Bering Sea remains largely exposed. This makes Alaska an urgent priority for monitoring and defense. The U.S. currently operates its largest fleet of advanced fighter jets in Alaska, emphasizing the state’s role as a frontline security hub. Experts suggest that Alaska-based surveillance and missile detection systems need to be strengthened to counter potential threats from Asia.
Trump claims Greenland is vital for Golden Dome missile shield, but experts question the need
The melting ice also raises concerns about resource competition. With new shipping routes and access to untapped minerals, the Bering Sea will likely attract more attention from Russia and China in the coming years. This underscores why experts argue Alaska, not Greenland, is the place where the United States must focus its efforts today.
Trump’s Push for Greenland: Symbolic or Strategic?
Donald Trump’s calls for Greenland have captured global headlines. In January, he claimed Greenland is vital for “strategic national security” and called for full ownership, arguing that leasing the island would be insufficient for defense. At Davos, he reiterated his position, saying, “All we’re asking for is to get Greenland, including the right title and ownership, because you need ownership to defend it.” He added that negotiations should proceed “the easy way,” but hinted at a harder approach if necessary.
Despite Trump’s repeated emphasis on Greenland, experts argue that the U.S. already possesses the territory that matters most in the Arctic. Alaska provides a natural defensive advantage and immediate access to strategic waters, minerals, and military positioning. Analysts note that securing Alaska is more practical and urgent than negotiating for Greenland, which involves foreign ownership and complex political dynamics.
Trump says U.S. gets ‘total access’ to Greenland — Denmark and Greenland say otherwise
Reports show that both Russia and China are aware of Alaska’s importance. Military flights, naval exercises, and other maneuvers near U.S. territory suggest that Alaska, particularly the Bering Sea, is the new focus of global power competition in the Arctic. Analysts insist that immediate attention to this region is crucial to maintaining U.S. security.
While Greenland grabs the headlines, experts say the real action is in Alaska. The Bering Sea is already part of the United States, rich in resources, and strategically positioned to protect the homeland. As the Arctic continues to open up due to climate change, Alaska is quickly becoming the frontline of American defense in the north.