The US president has appointed a new envoy to Greenland who said he will work to make it “part of the US”
Copenhagen has expressed outrage over US President Donald Trump’s announcement of a new special envoy to Greenland, an island under Danish sovereignty that the American leader previously suggested should become part of the United States.
On Sunday, Trump stated on his Truth Social account that Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry would become his special ambassador to the island, explaining that he “understands how essential Greenland is to our National Security.”
Landry confirmed the appointment in a post on X, stating he will work to “make Greenland a part of the US.”
Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen said the development came “out of nowhere” and was “completely unacceptable,” according to remarks cited by TV 2 channel. His department will summon the US ambassador in Copenhagen to demand explanations, he added.
Greenland Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen said the US move “doesn't change anything for us at home” and the island still belongs to its people.
Trump’s interest in acquiring Greenland from Denmark dates back to his first term but has also featured in his international rhetoric since returning to the White House in January. He has not ruled out annexing the island.
The US has maintained a military presence on the strategically important island since World War II. Vice President J.D. Vance visited the US Space Force base on the northwest coast of Greenland in March. He noted that while the US was not likely to use military force to seize the territory, it remained open to locals exercising their right to self-determination and breaking away from Denmark.
