COPENHAGEN (FN) — Denmark’s government said Monday it was “deeply upset” by U.S. President Donald Trump’s appointment of Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry as special envoy to Greenland, reigniting tensions over Washington’s interest in the vast Arctic territory.
Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen told Denmark’s national broadcaster that Landry’s statements — including his support for Greenland becoming part of the United States — were “completely unacceptable.” Rasmussen confirmed he would summon the U.S. ambassador to Copenhagen to formally protest the move.
Trump announced Landry’s appointment on Sunday, praising him as someone who “understands how essential Greenland is to our national security.” Landry himself has publicly backed Trump’s idea of incorporating Greenland into the U.S., citing its strategic location and mineral wealth.
Greenland, an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, has repeatedly rejected U.S. overtures. Its Prime Minister reiterated Monday that “Greenland will decide its own future,” underscoring that Copenhagen and Nuuk view Trump’s envoy appointment as interference.
The controversy revives Trump’s earlier attempts to purchase Greenland during his first term, an idea dismissed by Denmark as “absurd.” Analysts say the new envoy role signals Trump’s continued interest in the island, which is strategically important for Arctic defense and rich in rare minerals.
Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen joined Rasmussen in condemning the appointment, warning that it undermines Denmark’s sovereignty. “We cannot accept statements that suggest Greenland should be annexed,” Poulsen said, adding that the move risks destabilizing NATO unity.
The U.S. has long maintained a military presence in Greenland, including the Thule Air Base. Trump’s renewed push has raised concerns in Denmark about escalating geopolitical competition in the Arctic, where Russia and China are also expanding influence.
Danish media framed the appointment as a diplomatic provocation, while opposition politicians accused Trump of disrespecting Denmark’s sovereignty. Commentators warned that the move could strain U.S.–Danish relations, which have traditionally been strong within NATO.
Greenlandic leaders emphasized that while they welcome international cooperation, decisions about sovereignty rest with the island’s people. “We are not for sale,” one official said, echoing Denmark’s earlier rebuke of Trump’s 2019 proposal.
As Copenhagen prepares to confront Washington diplomatically, the envoy controversy highlights the growing importance of the Arctic in global politics — and the risks of clashing visions between allies over territory and sovereignty.
