On Sunday, President Donald Trump announced a new appointment that could reshape Arctic geopolitics.
Trump’s Appointment
President Trump said, “Jeff understands how essential Greenland is to our National Security, and will strongly advance our Country’s Interests for the Safety, Security, and Survival of our Allies, and indeed, the World,” when he announced the appointment.
Trump has repeatedly called for U.S. jurisdiction over Greenland and has not ruled out military force to take control of the mineral-rich island, even though Denmark is a NATO ally.
Jeff Landry, who took office as governor of Louisiana in January 2024, will serve in the envoy role while his gubernatorial term ends in January 2028.
Landry’s Response
Landry posted on X, “It’s an honor to serve you in this volunteer position to make Greenland a part of the U.S.”, and added, “This in no way affects my position as Governor of Louisiana!”.
The governor emphasized that the new role does not interfere with his responsibilities in Louisiana.
Denmark’s Position
Denmark, a NATO ally, and Greenland have stated that the island is not for sale and condemned reports of U.S. intelligence gathering there.
The Embassy of Denmark in Washington did not immediately respond to requests for comment about Landry’s appointment.
International Reactions
The Danish Defense Intelligence Service released a report earlier this month saying the United States is using its economic power to “assert its will” and threaten military force against friend and foe alike.
The report noted that Washington’s greater assertiveness under the Trump administration comes as China and Russia seek to diminish Western, especially American, influence.
It added that “The strategic importance of the Arctic is rising as the conflict between Russia and the West intensifies, and the growing security and strategic focus on the Arctic by the United States will further accelerate these developments.”
Because Greenland straddles the Arctic Circle among the United States, Russia and Europe, it has been a geopolitical prize that the U.S. and others have eyed for more than 150 years.
The opening of Arctic shipping lanes makes Greenland even more valuable for trade.
Recent Developments
In August, Danish officials summoned the U.S. ambassador after a report that at least three people with connections to Trump had carried out covert influence operations in Greenland.
Earlier this year, Vice President JD Vance visited a remote U.S. military base on the island and accused Denmark of underinvesting there.
Trump has repeatedly stated that Greenland is crucial for U.S. security and has not ruled out taking the island by military force.
Denmark and Greenland condemned U.S. intelligence gathering, and the U.S. push for Greenland is opposed by Russia and much of Europe.
Strategic Implications
Trump has not ruled out using military force to take control of Greenland, a stance that could strain U.S. relations with Denmark and NATO allies.
The strategic importance of the Arctic is rising as the conflict between Russia and the West intensifies, and U.S. focus on the region is accelerating developments.
This focus could impact NATO dynamics, as the alliance must navigate differing interests among member states.
The report also highlighted the United States’ use of economic power to assert its will in the region.
Key Takeaways
- President Trump appoints Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry as U.S. special envoy to Greenland.
- Denmark and Greenland reject the notion that the island is for sale and condemn U.S. intelligence activities.
- The Danish Defense Intelligence Service warns of U.S. economic pressure and potential military force in the Arctic.
The appointment underscores a growing U.S. interest in Greenland amid heightened Arctic competition, but it also risks diplomatic friction with Denmark, NATO allies, and European partners.
