Trump Appoints Special Envoy to Greenland, Sparking Diplomatic Tension

US President Donald Trump has appointed Jeff Landry, Republican governor of Louisiana, as a special envoy to Greenland, a move that has reignited tensions with Denmark. Greenland is a semi-autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark.

Governor Landry, in a post on social media platform X, described the role as a “volunteer position to make Greenland a part of the US.” The comment has drawn immediate criticism from Copenhagen, which said it would summon the US ambassador for clarification.

Greenland’s prime minister also responded, emphasizing that the island must determine its own future and that its territorial integrity should be respected. Analysts note that while the appointment is largely symbolic, it revives discussions that began in 2019 when Trump expressed interest in purchasing Greenland, an idea rejected outright by both Danish and Greenlandic officials.

Experts say the move could complicate diplomatic relations between the US and Denmark, a NATO ally, especially given Greenland’s strategic location in the Arctic. The appointment raises questions about the US approach to Arctic policy, resources, and regional security.

While Governor Landry has no formal authority to change Greenland’s political status, the designation reflects continued interest from some US officials in increasing American influence in the Arctic. Denmark has reiterated that Greenland’s future decisions remain firmly in the hands of its people.

The situation is being closely watched by international observers as it highlights ongoing tensions over sovereignty, diplomacy, and Arctic geopolitics.