WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) — On Sunday, President Donald Trump announced the appointment of Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry as the U.S. special envoy to Greenland, a territory known for its vast resources and strategic location within the Arctic. Trump has long expressed his views that the U.S. should exert jurisdiction over Greenland, even suggesting the possibility of military intervention to seize control of the region, which he deems crucial for national security.
In his announcement, Trump emphasized Landry's understanding of Greenland's importance for U.S. security, stating that he will "strongly advance our Country's Interests for the Safety, Security, and Survival of our Allies, and indeed, the World." This reflects Trump’s ongoing interest in Greenland, a matter he has previously raised during his transition to the presidency and in the initial months of his current term.
The conversation surrounding Greenland had tapered off in recent months; however, it resurfaced when Danish officials summoned the U.S. ambassador following reports that associates of Trump were allegedly involved in covert operations aimed at influencing Greenland's political landscape. In a related development earlier this year, Vice President JD Vance visited a U.S. military base in Greenland and criticized Denmark for underinvesting in the territory.
Despite Trump's assertive stance on the issue, both Denmark and Greenland have made it clear that the island is not for sale. This sentiment was echoed in response to reports suggesting that the U.S. is gathering intelligence within Greenland. Moreover, the growing tensions concerning U.S. interests in the region have gained attention, particularly amid a backdrop of increasing opposition from both Russia and parts of Europe.
Landry, who took office as governor in January 2024, expressed his enthusiasm for his new role in an X post. He stated, "It’s an honor to serve you in this volunteer position to make Greenland a part of the U.S." He also reiterated that this appointment would not interfere with his responsibilities as the Governor of Louisiana.
The Danish Embassy in Washington has yet to comment on Landry's new position. Meanwhile, the Danish Defense Intelligence Service released a report highlighting concerns over the U.S.'s use of economic power to assert dominance and the potential threats posed to both allies and adversaries alike. The increasing assertiveness of the U.S. in the Arctic is viewed in the context of rising geopolitical tensions, particularly as China and Russia seek to reduce American influence in the region.
The report from the Danish intelligence agency underscored that the strategic significance of the Arctic is growing, especially in light of the intensifying conflict between Russia and the West. It suggested that U.S. focus on Arctic security and strategy will expedite developments in this area.
