Trump's Greenland Ambitions Spark Diplomatic Tensions

Tue Dec 23 2025 16:54:18 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

President Trump reaffirms his interest in Greenland by appointing a special envoy, leading to strong reactions from Denmark and Greenland’s leaders.

Donald Trump has appointed Jeff Landry as a special envoy to Greenland, a territory he has previously shown interest in annexing. The U.S. President stated that Greenland is essential for national security, a move that has provoked anger from Denmark, which insists on its sovereignty over the island. Greenland's leaders affirmed their right to determine their own future, emphasizing the need for mutual respect in international relations.

Donald Trump has sparked a fresh row with Denmark after appointing a special envoy to Greenland, the vast Arctic island he has expressed a desire to annex.

In a recent BBC interview, Trump stated that the U.S. needed Greenland for national protection, declaring, we have to have it.

Jeff Landry, the Republican governor of Louisiana, will lead as special envoy, aiming to strengthen ties with the semi-autonomous region of Denmark.

The move has drawn sharp criticisms from Copenhagen, with Denmark's Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen calling for an explanation, while Greenland Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen emphasized the island's right to self-determination and territorial integrity.

Landry expressed his honor in serving the U.S. and insisted on making Greenland a part of the country. Trump, since returning to the White House in January, has reiterated his interest in Greenland for its strategic location and mineral rich resources.

Denmark's leadership reiterated their commitment to defending their sovereignty, stating actions undermining their territorial integrity are unacceptable.

EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also voiced support for Denmark and Greenland, reflecting the broader European concern regarding the U.S. stance. The diplomatic fallout highlights the tension between U.S. interests and Greenland's aspirations for autonomy.

This recent appointment revives Trump's previous attempts to purchase Greenland, which were rejected by both Denmark and Greenland in 2019, reminding international observers that Trump's ambitions over the Arctic region remain firmly in place.