Donald Trump has triggered a new diplomatic dispute with Denmark after appointing a special envoy to Greenland. The Arctic island is a semi-autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark.
On Sunday, Trump announced that Jeff Landry, the Republican governor of Louisiana, would take on the role. The appointment immediately drew criticism from Danish and Greenlandic leaders.
Envoy says goal is to make Greenland part of the US
Governor Landry said on X that he was honoured to serve in a volunteer role. He added that his goal was to help make Greenland part of the United States.
Those remarks caused anger in Copenhagen. Danish officials said they would summon the US ambassador to demand an explanation.
Greenland’s prime minister also responded. He said the island must decide its own future and that its territorial integrity must be respected.
Trump renews interest in Greenland.
Since returning to the White House in January, Trump has revived his long-standing interest in Greenland. He has pointed to its strategic location and its mineral resources.
Trump has also refused to rule out the use of force to gain control of the island. That position has shocked Denmark, a Nato ally and long-time US partner.
Greenland’s political status and public opinion
Greenland has around 57,000 residents. It has enjoyed extensive self-government since 1979.
Denmark still controls defence and foreign policy. While many Greenlanders support eventual independence, opinion polls show strong opposition to joining the United States.
Strong reaction from Denmark and the EU
Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen described the appointment as deeply upsetting. He warned Washington to respect Danish sovereignty.
Speaking to Danish broadcaster TV2, he said Denmark could not accept actions that undermine its territorial integrity.
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also weighed in. She said the European Union stood in full solidarity with Denmark and the people of Greenland.
Greenland calls for cooperation based on respect.
Greenland’s Prime Minister Jens Frederik Nielsen said the territory was open to cooperation. This includes working with the United States and other countries.
However, he stressed that cooperation must be based on mutual respect. He said Greenland belongs to Greenlanders and will decide its own future.
Why the appointment matters
Special envoys are informal roles. They do not require approval from the host country.
Still, the appointment signals that Trump’s ambition to control Greenland has not faded. It also reflects a broader effort to expand US influence across the Western Hemisphere.
During his first term, Trump tried to buy Greenland in 2019. Both Denmark and Greenland rejected the proposal, stating clearly that Greenland is not for sale.
