Donald Trump has sparked tensions with Denmark after appointing Jeff Landry as special envoy to Greenland. Trump said the US needs Greenland for “national protection” and claimed, “we have to have it.”

Landry, governor of Louisiana, will “lead the charge” in his volunteer role, Trump added. Greenland is a semi-autonomous part of Denmark, which has angered Copenhagen.

Denmark said it will call the US ambassador for “an explanation.” Meanwhile, Greenland’s prime minister stressed the island must decide its own future. He added, “territorial integrity must be respected.”

Landry posted on X that it was an honor to serve in a role to make Greenland part of the US. Trump, returning to the White House in January, renewed his focus on Greenland. He cited its strategic location and mineral wealth.

The president refused to rule out force to secure control. He said Greenland is needed for “national security, not minerals,” mentioning Chinese and Russian ships as potential threats.

Greenland has about 57,000 residents and extensive self-government since 1979. Denmark handles defense and foreign policy. Most Greenlanders favor independence from Denmark, with overwhelming opposition to joining the US.

Denmark’s Foreign Minister called Landry’s appointment “deeply upsetting” and warned the US to respect Danish sovereignty. Greenland’s prime minister said cooperation is welcome only with mutual respect.

EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen tweeted full solidarity with Denmark and Greenland. Trump said Landry understands how “essential Greenland is to national security” and will advance US interests.

Envoys are informal roles and do not require host-country approval. Trump’s appointment highlights his ongoing ambition to control Greenland.

This follows his first-term attempt to buy Greenland, which both Denmark and Greenland rejected in 2019, saying, “Greenland is not for sale.”

Landry previously supported the idea on X, saying the US should ensure Greenland joins the country. He is a military veteran, former police officer, ex-Congressman, and Louisiana attorney general.

The appointment comes amid Arctic competition. Melting ice opens new shipping routes and access to minerals. Greenland’s location is key to US and NATO security planning.

Additionally, the US reopened a consulate in Nuuk in 2020. Other countries maintain honorary consulates. The island’s strategic importance continues to grow.

Trump’s stance mirrors his aggressive approach to regional influence, similar to his policies toward Venezuela.

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