On Monday, Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry expressed gratitude to Trump for his trust and confirmed that he would take on the implementation of plans to integrate Greenland into the US through the post of special envoy, which he announced on his X account.
Trump, who has repeatedly expressed his desire to make Greenland part of the US, believes that this Arctic island has strategic importance for the national security of the country.
Trump announced Landry's appointment on December 21, noting that the new envoy understands how important Greenland is for US security and will advocate for Washington's interests.
This appointment underscores the US position, suggesting that Greenland may be considered as an independent entity not subordinate to Denmark, as well as hinting at Landry's intention to facilitate its accession to the US.
The appointment is unofficial and does not require Denmark's consent, which has already provoked a negative reaction from Copenhagen, which intends to summon the US ambassador for explanations.
Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen expressed deep dissatisfaction with this decision and warned US authorities against actions that could threaten Denmark's sovereignty.
“We cannot tolerate actions that threaten our territorial integrity while the kingdom consists of Denmark, the Faroe Islands, and Greenland,” the minister stated in an interview with TV2.
Jens-Frederik Nielsen, Prime Minister of Greenland, noted that only the local population has the right to determine the fate of the island and emphasized the need for respect from other countries for Greenland's territorial integrity.
He added that Greenland is ready to cooperate with the US and other states, but only on the basis of mutual respect.
“The appointment of a special envoy will not change our position. We determine our own future. Greenland belongs to its people, and its territorial integrity should be respected,” Nielsen emphasized.
After returning to the presidency, Trump is once again actively discussing his long-standing idea of acquiring Greenland. His interest in the island is driven by its strategic location and rich mineral resources.
Trump even hinted that he does not rule out the use of force to gain control over the island, which has shocked Denmark, a NATO ally of the US that traditionally maintains close relations with Washington.
Greenland, home to about 57,000 people, has enjoyed broad autonomy within the Danish kingdom since 1979. Foreign policy and defense issues are decided in Copenhagen.
Although many Greenlanders strive for independence from Denmark, most respondents refuse to support the idea of joining the US.
The dispute over Greenland's fate has become particularly relevant against the backdrop of the struggle for resources in the Arctic, as melting glaciers open new sea routes and make it easier to access mineral resources.
Additionally, Greenland has military significance, as its location between North America and Europe plays a key role in ensuring security. The Atlantic Ocean between Greenland, Iceland, and the UK (the Greenland-Iceland-UK gap, or GIUK) represents an important line of defense in the event of a potential conflict with Russia.
