WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. – President Donald Trump announced over the weekend that he is appointing Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry to serve as the U.S. special envoy to Greenland.
“Jeff understands how essential Greenland is to our National Security and will strongly advance our Country’s Interests for the Safety, Security, and Survival of our Allies, and indeed the World.” Trump announced in a Truth Social post.
Landry took office as governor in January 2024. Despite the new appointment, he assured his constituents that it “in no way affects my position as Governor of Louisiana!”
“It’s an honor to serve you in this volunteer position to make Greenland a part of the U.S.,” Landry replied in a post addressed to Trump.
Earlier this year, Trump expressed his interest in the self-governing Danish territory. He advocated for its integration into the U.S. due to its mineral resources and strategic significance.
In August, a report revealed that at least three people associated with Trump performed covert influence operations in Greenland. In response, Danish officials summoned the U.S. ambassador.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen and Prime Minister of Greenland Jens-Frederik Nielsen issued a joint statement.
“We have said it before. Now, we say it again. National borders and the sovereignty of states are rooted in international law. Greenland belongs to the Greenlanders, and the U.S. shall not take over Greenland. We expect respect for our joint territorial integrity,” they commented.
Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen said he would summon the U.S. ambassador once again to express his discontent.
“I am very upset about the appointment and the statement, which I find completely unacceptable,” the foreign minister elaborated. Additionally, he stated that he demands an explanation for the appointment, which came “out of nowhere.”
Landry is the latest addition to appointments related to Greenland. Trump confirmed Ken Howery, ex-ambassador to Sweden, as ambassador to Denmark in October.
Last week, Trump named Thomas Dans as head of the U.S. Arctic Research Commission. Dans is a venture capitalist. He established business and political ties in Greenland.
