President Donald Trump has intensified his push to acquire Greenland, appointing Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry as a special envoy.

The move has sparked strong protests from Denmark and Greenland, with leaders insisting the island’s sovereignty must be respected.

President Trump announced Landry’s appointment on Sunday, describing Greenland as critical for US national security. Speaking at Mar-a-Lago on Monday, Trump said the US “needs Greenland for national protection” and added, “we have to have it.” He cited potential threats from Russian and Chinese ships near the Arctic territory.

Landry, a military veteran and former US Congressman, confirmed on X that he would serve in a “volunteer position to make Greenland a part of the US,” emphasizing that his new role would not affect his duties as governor.

Denmark and Greenland push back

The announcement drew immediate backlash from Copenhagen and Nuuk. Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen called Landry’s statements “totally unacceptable” and summoned the US ambassador for an explanation.

Greenland’s Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen stressed that “Greenland belongs to Greenlanders,” adding that the island’s future must be decided by its people. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen echoed the sentiment, noting that the situation strains long-standing allied relations.

EU voices support for Denmark

The European Union also weighed in, with Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Council President Antonio Costa expressing “full solidarity” with Denmark. They emphasized that “territorial integrity and sovereignty are fundamental principles of international law,” reinforcing opposition to any US attempts to annex Greenland.

Greenland, home to around 57,000 people, has extensive self-rule but remains under Danish control for foreign affairs and defense. Trump’s renewed interest in the island is driven by its strategic Arctic location, US ballistic missile defense installations, and vast mineral resources.

Since returning to the White House, Trump has refused to rule out military options to secure Greenland, framing the territory as essential for US defense rather than resource exploitation.