Russian President Vladimir Putin has stated that Greenland’s future is a matter for the United States and Denmark to decide, distancing Moscow from any direct involvement. At a January 21, 2026 security meeting, he compared the situation to the 1867 U.S. purchase of Alaska, estimating Greenland’s value at $200–250 million, or closer to $1 billion when adjusted for gold prices. He also criticized Denmark’s historical treatment of Greenland, calling it colonial and harsh.

Despite this public neutrality, the issue is being closely watched in Moscow. Analysts say the Kremlin views the dispute between the U.S. and its NATO allies with quiet satisfaction, as it exposes internal divisions. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has even described the situation as a potential “deep crisis” for NATO.

At the same time, some Russian military commentators warn that a U.S. takeover of Greenland could threaten Russia’s Arctic security and Northern Fleet. Pro-Kremlin media also suggest that the Greenland debate is conveniently shifting global attention away from the war in Ukraine.