Denmark Urges US to Respect Sovereignty Following Greenland Envoy Appointment

Denmark has asserted its expectation for all nations, particularly the United States, to honour its territorial sovereignty following the appointment of a special envoy to Greenland by US President Donald Trump. This announcement has provoked a diplomatic response from Copenhagen, highlighting ongoing tensions over Greenland's status.

On Monday, Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen issued a statement declaring that while the appointment of Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry as a special envoy indicates continued American interest in Greenland, it is crucial for all parties to respect Denmark's territorial integrity.

Rasmussen also noted that he plans to summon the US Ambassador to Denmark, Kenneth Howery, for discussions regarding this matter. He emphasised, "National borders and the sovereignty of states are rooted in international law," underscoring that such principles are fundamental and must be upheld.

In a joint statement, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen and Jens-Frederik Nielsen, the Prime Minister of Greenland, reiterated that "Greenland belongs to the Greenlanders, and the US shall not take over Greenland." They insisted on the necessity for respect towards their collective territorial integrity.

The announcement of Landry's appointment comes as Trump has reignited his long-standing interest in Greenland, a vast island known for its strategic location and rich mineral resources. He has previously suggested that the island could be annexed, sparking international concern.

Greenland, which is home to approximately 57,000 residents, has been part of the Kingdom of Denmark for over six centuries but has enjoyed significant autonomy since 1979. While domestic affairs are largely managed locally, Denmark retains control over defence and foreign policy.

In a social media post, Nielsen highlighted that the recent developments do not alter the status quo for Greenlanders, stating, "We decide our own future. Territorial integrity must be respected." He added that Greenland welcomes international cooperation, but it must occur with consideration for local values and interests.

The tensions have drawn reactions from various political figures and entities. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed solidarity with Denmark and Greenland, affirming the importance of respecting their sovereignty.

Trump's decision to appoint Landry has been met with criticism from Danish officials. Lars Løkke Rasmussen labelled it as "deeply upsetting," and reaffirmed that Denmark cannot accept actions that threaten its territorial integrity.

The geopolitical context surrounding this appointment is underscored by the growing strategic competition in the Arctic region, where melting ice is increasingly opening new shipping routes and access to valuable resources. Greenland's geographical position makes it significant for both US and NATO security interests.

The US has maintained a military presence in Greenland since World War II, establishing bases for strategic purposes. Vice President JD Vance visited a remote US military facility in Greenland in March, indicating ongoing American interest in strengthening ties with the territory.

This latest development follows past efforts by Trump to purchase Greenland, which were categorically rejected by both Danish and Greenlandic authorities, who stated, "Greenland is not for sale." Landry, in his new role, has expressed a desire to integrate Greenland into the United States, a sentiment that has raised further concerns in Copenhagen.

As the situation continues to unfold, the Danish government remains firm in its stance, advocating for the respect of its sovereignty and the rights of the Greenlandic people as discussions with US officials progress.