Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry appointed by President Trump as U.S. special envoy to Greenland amid national security interests.
As of December 22, 2025, President Donald Trump has appointed Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry as the U.S. special envoy to Greenland, a move that has reignited discussions about American interests in the Arctic territory. The announcement, made via social media, has trended with hashtags like #GreenlandEnvoy and #TrumpGreenland, drawing reactions from excitement among supporters to concerns over international relations.
Who Is Jeff Landry?
Trump revealed the appointment on social media, praising Landry’s understanding of Greenland’s strategic value. He stated, “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.” Landry, who will serve in a volunteer capacity, responded on social media, calling it “an honor to serve you in this volunteer position to make Greenland a part of the U.S.”
The role focuses on advancing U.S. interests in Greenland, amid Trump’s longstanding calls for acquiring the territory from Denmark.
Background
Jeff Landry, a Republican, has been the Governor of Louisiana since January 2024, after serving as the state’s Attorney General from 2016 to 2024. A former U.S. Army veteran and sheriff’s deputy, Landry is known for his conservative policies on issues like immigration and energy. His selection aligns with Trump’s emphasis on national security, as Greenland holds significant mineral resources and a key Arctic position vital for U.S. defense strategies.
The appointment follows previous U.S. actions, including Vice President JD Vance’s visit to a Greenland military base in March 2025, where he criticized Denmark’s investment levels. Trump has not ruled out military force to gain jurisdiction over Greenland, building on earlier covert influence operations linked to his associates.
Reactions and Implications
The decision has heightened tensions with Denmark, a NATO ally. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen and Greenlandic Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen issued a joint statement affirming, “Greenland belongs to the Greenlanders and the U.S. shall not take over Greenland… We expect respect for our joint territorial integrity.” They stressed adherence to international law, with Nielsen adding that the announcement “changes nothing for us here at home.” Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen plans to summon U.S. Ambassador Kenneth Howery.
The European Union echoed these sentiments, with spokesperson Anouar El Anouni emphasizing the preservation of Denmark’s territorial integrity as essential. Analysts note potential strains on U.S.-Denmark relations, given Greenland’s autonomy within the Kingdom of Denmark and the U.S.’s economic and military leverage in the region.
Conclusion
Jeff Landry’s appointment as envoy underscores Trump’s persistent focus on Greenland’s strategic assets, but it risks escalating diplomatic frictions with Denmark and the EU. As developments unfold, the move could reshape Arctic geopolitics.
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