The United States is once again turning its attention to Greenland, the world’s largest island, known for its strategic location and untapped mineral wealth. Recently, President Donald Trump appointed Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry as a special envoy to Greenland, signaling renewed American interest in the Arctic territory. Trump emphasized that Landry “understands how essential Greenland is to our national security” and will prioritize “the safety, security, and survival of our allies and indeed, the world.”
Trump has long expressed a desire for the US to take control of Greenland. Positioned between the US and Russia, the island holds strategic military significance and is believed to contain vast mineral resources beneath its icy surface. Greenland is home to just 56,000 people and has been an autonomous territory under Danish administration since the early 1800s. Earlier this year, Trump remarked, “I think we’re going to have it,” suggesting that he believes the local population would support US governance. Vice President JD Vance even visited the island in March, inspecting a US military base in the north.
However, both Denmark and Greenland have consistently opposed any attempt by the United States to seize control. In August, Denmark summoned the US ambassador after reports of covert influence operations on the island linked to Trump associates. Denmark remains a NATO ally of the United States, making the situation particularly sensitive.
Reacting to Landry’s appointment, Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen stressed that the move “confirms the continued American interest in Greenland,” but firmly stated that “everyone, including the US, must respect the territorial integrity of the Kingdom of Denmark.” Greenland’s Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen echoed this sentiment, asserting that “Greenland belongs to the Greenlanders,” and that international cooperation must respect local values and wishes.
Meanwhile, Governor Landry tweeted that it is an “honor” to serve in a volunteer role aimed at “making Greenland part of the US,” drawing sharp criticism from Danish and Greenlandic authorities. Earlier this month, Denmark’s Defense Intelligence Service noted in its annual report that the US has been leveraging economic influence to “assert its will” and potentially threaten military action, even against allies.
The situation underscores the delicate balance of Arctic geopolitics. While the US sees Greenland as a strategic asset, Denmark and Greenland remain determined to protect their sovereignty, highlighting ongoing tensions in one of the world’s most resource-rich and strategically significant regions.
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