WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. – On Sunday, President Donald Trump announced the appointment of Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry as the United States special envoy to Greenland. This move targets the expansive, semi-autonomous Danish territory, which Trump has expressed interest in acquiring for the U.S.

“Jeff recognizes Greenland’s vital role in our National Security and is committed to advancing our Nation’s Interests for the Safety, Security, and well-being of our Allies, and indeed, the entire World,” Trump stated during his announcement.

Since returning to the White House, Trump has repeatedly emphasized the necessity for U.S. control over Greenland. He has even suggested that military action might be on the table to secure the mineral-rich and strategically crucial Arctic territory.

While the Greenland issue had faded from the spotlight recently, it resurged in August when Danish officials summoned the U.S. ambassador following reports of covert influence efforts in Greenland by individuals connected to Trump.

Earlier this year, Vice President JD Vance made headlines with a visit to a secluded U.S. military base on the island. During his visit, he criticized Denmark for its lack of investment in the region.

Trump has said that Greenland is crucial for U.S. security and hasn’t ruled out taking the island by military force, even though Denmark is a NATO ally of the U.S.

Landry took office as governor in January 2024. His term ends in January 2028.

In a post Sunday on X, Landry called the appointment “an honor to serve you in this volunteer position to make Greenland a part of the U.S. This in no way affects my position as Governor of Louisiana!”

Denmark, a NATO ally of the U.S., and Greenland have said the island is not for sale and condemned reports of the U.S. gathering intelligence there. The U.S. push for Greenland is also opposed by Russia and much of Europe.

The Denmark Embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to requests for comment about Landry’s appointment.

The Danish Defense Intelligence Service said in a report earlier this month that the United States is using its economic power to “assert its will” and threaten military force against friend and foe alike.

The service, in its annual assessment, said Washington’s greater assertiveness under the Trump administration also comes as China and Russia seek to diminish Western, especially American, influence.

“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,” the report said.