U.S. Special Envoy to Greenland Appointment Sparks Tensions Over Territorial Integrity
Jeff Landry, the governor of Louisiana, has been named the U.S. special envoy to Greenland. The role is described as voluntary and will not interfere with his governorship.
Greenland's prime minister emphasized that the territory will decide its own future and stressed that its territorial integrity must be respected. He noted that any cooperation with the United States and other countries should be based on mutual respect.
Denmark's foreign minister expressed that the appointment is deeply upsetting and stated that the kingdom's sovereignty must be respected. Denmark cannot accept actions that undermine Greenland's territorial integrity and will summon the U.S. ambassador for an explanation.
Greenland has a population of around 57,000 and has had extensive self-government since 1979, although defence and foreign policy remain under Danish control. Most Greenlanders oppose joining the United States and favor eventual independence.
The Arctic region’s melting ice is opening new shipping routes and increasing access to mineral resources. Greenland holds a central position in U.S. and NATO security planning and lies along key missile routes between Russia and the U.S.
Since January, former President Donald Trump has revived interest in Greenland, citing its strategic location and mineral wealth, and he has not ruled out using force to secure control.
