New Envoy Outlines Approach to Greenland
On Tuesday, the recently appointed U.S. representative to Greenland indicated that the Trump administration aims to initiate discussions with the people of the semi-autonomous Danish territory. Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry, in his first detailed remarks since taking the role, emphasized a collaborative approach.
"Well, I think our discussions should be with the actual people in Greenland — the Greenlanders," Landry stated during an interview on Fox News. "What are they looking for? What opportunities have they not gotten? Why haven’t they gotten the protection that they actually deserve?" He clarified that the U.S. does not intend to "go in there trying to conquer anybody" or attempt to "take over anybody’s country."
Diplomatic Reactions Emerge
This announcement has reignited concerns in Denmark and across Europe. Danish Foreign Minister Jeppe Kofod announced plans to summon the U.S. ambassador for discussions. In a joint statement on Monday, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen and Greenlandic leader Jens-Frederik Nielsen reaffirmed their stance: "We have said it before. Now, we say it again. National borders and the sovereignty of states are rooted in international law. They are fundamental principles. You cannot annex another country. Not even with an argument about international security."
President Trump has previously advocated for U.S. control over Greenland, citing security interests, and has not dismissed the possibility of military action. Vice President JD Vance visited a U.S. base in Greenland in March, criticizing Denmark's investment levels there. Although the issue faded from public view, Danish officials summoned the top U.S. diplomat in Copenhagen in August following reports of covert influence operations linked to Trump associates in Greenland.
Timing and Congressional Scrutiny
The appointment comes as the administration faces multiple international challenges, including efforts to sustain a ceasefire in Gaza and negotiate an end to the conflict in Ukraine. A Danish official, speaking anonymously, noted that no advance warning was given about Landry's appointment. Similarly, a congressional aide, also requesting anonymity, reported that details have not yet been provided to Congress.
Senator Jeanne Shaheen, the leading Democrat on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, expressed concerns on Tuesday about "picking fights with friends" during a globally sensitive period. She asserted, "Greenland’s sovereignty is not up for debate. Denmark is a critical NATO ally that has stood side by side with the U.S."
