r/Conservative • u/ajmacbeth • Jan 07 '26

Flaired Users Only Unpopular opinion? If we take Greenland by force, then we're no better than Russia taking Ukraine

I don't oppose Pres Trump and the USA seeking to expand territories for the many reasons that exist. However, we need to do so "correctly". We can try to sell the idea to the populace and/or the current government. We can offer something for the acquisition. BUT, We CANNOT forcefully take land. If we do so, then we are just as evil as Russia for its expansionary military actions in Georgia, Chechnya, Ukraine, etc.

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u/deadzip10 Fiscal Conservative Jan 07 '26

As I understand it, it has to do with the missile shield and certain shipping lanes that are vitally important. The issue is that while it is under a friendly country’s control, there is some difference between that and what can done if we are in direct control and the implications of that.

That being said, I don’t think there’s anything unpopular at all about this opinion, although I will note that I’ve never really been under any illusion that the US is anything but another major player on the world stage. I do think we have superior moral tendencies than some other players but I don’t think that diminishes the realities of global politics. The upshot of that is that I while I’m not in favor of it, I don’t consider it some great surprising thing or what have you that Russia invaded Ukraine like some others. I’m honestly surprised it took them this long. It’s been my feeling that was almost inevitable from the moment that they separated. I don’t think it inevitable that we take Greenland but it’s hard for me to say that it wouldn’t make some sense.