Donald Trump has sparked a fresh row with Denmark after appointing a special envoy to Greenland, the vast Arctic island he has expressed interest in annexing. In response to a question from the BBC about the new role of Jeff Landry, the Republican governor of Louisiana, Trump said the US needed Greenland for 'national protection' and proclaimed, 'we have to have it.' The appointed envoy is expected to 'lead the charge' in developing US interests in the territory, which is part of Denmark.
The appointment has prompted a stern reaction from Copenhagen, where officials have summoned the US ambassador for an explanation. Greenland's Prime Minister emphasized that the island must 'decide our own future' and insisted that its 'territorial integrity must be respected.'
Governor Landry, who described the opportunity as an honor, stated he would serve in the role voluntarily, aiming to integrate Greenland into the US. Trump's ongoing interest in Greenland's strategic position and mineral wealth has been a point of contention, particularly following his remarks about using force if necessary to secure the territory.
Greenland's historical context includes a strong push for self-governance since 1979, and public sentiment generally favors independence from Denmark rather than annexation by the US. Denmark’s Foreign Minister labeled the appointment as 'deeply upsetting,' and the leader of Greenland reiterated the importance of mutual respect in foreign relations. The controversy highlights growing competition in the Arctic as geopolitical interests increase amid melting ice and newly accessible resources in the region.
The appointment has prompted a stern reaction from Copenhagen, where officials have summoned the US ambassador for an explanation. Greenland's Prime Minister emphasized that the island must 'decide our own future' and insisted that its 'territorial integrity must be respected.'
Governor Landry, who described the opportunity as an honor, stated he would serve in the role voluntarily, aiming to integrate Greenland into the US. Trump's ongoing interest in Greenland's strategic position and mineral wealth has been a point of contention, particularly following his remarks about using force if necessary to secure the territory.
Greenland's historical context includes a strong push for self-governance since 1979, and public sentiment generally favors independence from Denmark rather than annexation by the US. Denmark’s Foreign Minister labeled the appointment as 'deeply upsetting,' and the leader of Greenland reiterated the importance of mutual respect in foreign relations. The controversy highlights growing competition in the Arctic as geopolitical interests increase amid melting ice and newly accessible resources in the region.
