COPENHAGEN (AP) — Denmark has issued a firm diplomatic statement reinforcing its territorial sovereignty over Greenland following the United States’ appointment of a special envoy to the Arctic territory. The declaration from Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen came directly after former President Donald Trump designated Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry as special envoy to Greenland.
Minister Rasmussen emphasized through an official ministry communiqué that while Denmark acknowledges sustained American interest in Greenland, all nations—including the United States—must unequivocally respect the territorial integrity of the Kingdom of Denmark. This diplomatic response highlights escalating tensions between the NATO allies regarding the strategically significant, mineral-rich island.
The background to this development traces to Trump’s presidency, when he repeatedly expressed interest in acquiring U.S. jurisdiction over Greenland and reportedly contemplated military options for securing control. The situation intensified in March when Vice President JD Vance visited Thule Air Base in Greenland and criticized Denmark’s investment levels in the region. Further diplomatic strain emerged in August when Danish authorities summoned the U.S. ambassador following reports of covert influence operations in Greenland by individuals connected to Trump.
In his announcement, Trump characterized Landry’s role as crucial to advancing U.S. national security interests and ensuring the safety of American allies. Landry subsequently expressed honor at the appointment through social media, explicitly referencing ambitions to facilitate Greenland’s incorporation into the United States.
The Danish Defense Intelligence Service’s recent annual assessment adds context to these developments, noting that the U.S. has increasingly leveraged economic influence and military posturing to assert its geopolitical objectives with both allies and adversaries.