On Sunday evening, President Donald Trump announced he is tapping Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry (R) to serve as U.S. special envoy to Greenland, asserting that the island is key to national security.
“I am pleased to announce that I am appointing the GREAT Governor of Louisiana, Jeff Landry, as the United States Special Envoy to Greenland. 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. Congratulations Jeff!” the president said in a Truth Social post.
Landry said the new position would not impact his role as governor.
“Thank you @realDonaldTrump! It’s 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!” Landry wrote in a post on X.
Landry, who has been serving as governor since early 2024, previously served as Louisiana attorney general and as a lawmaker in the U.S. House of Representatives.
“The appointment confirms the continued American interest in Greenland. However, we insist that everyone – including the U.S. – must show respect for the territorial integrity of the Kingdom of Denmark,” Denmark’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Lars Løkke Rasmussen noted in a statement, Reuters reported.
Trump has expressed ambitions for the U.S. to acquire Greenland.
“Greenland is an incredible place, and the people will benefit tremendously if, and when, it becomes part of our Nation. We will protect it, and cherish it, from a very vicious outside World. MAKE GREENLAND GREAT AGAIN!” he declared in a January 2025 Truth Social post.
