Background on Key Figures and Context
On Sunday night, former US President Donald Trump announced that he had appointed Jeff Landry, the Governor of Louisiana, as a special envoy from the United States to Greenland. This move has sparked controversy, prompting Denmark to take action.
Greenland is an autonomous Danish territory, rich in natural resources and strategically located between North America and Europe. Its significance has grown as global powers, including the United States, China, and Russia, show increasing interest in the Arctic region due to new shipping routes opened by climate change and abundant rare earth minerals. Moreover, Greenland’s position makes it a crucial point in any potential missile trajectory between Russia and the United States.
Who is Jeff Landry?
Jeff Landry, a Republican, has served as the Governor of Louisiana since 2016. Known for his conservative views, Landry has been active in state politics and has now taken on a new role as a special envoy to Greenland, a position that does not interfere with his current duties as governor, according to him.
Why is Greenland Relevant?
Greenland’s strategic location, abundant natural resources, and growing importance in the Arctic region have attracted global attention. The island’s proximity to critical shipping lanes and its potential role in missile defense make it a valuable asset for any nation seeking to expand its influence in the Arctic.
Danish Response and International Support
Denmark’s Foreign Minister, Jeppe Kofod, expressed deep indignation over Trump’s appointment and the US’s perceived disregard for Danish sovereignty over Greenland. As a member of the European Union and NATO, Denmark has sought to emphasize its commitment to upholding international law and protecting its territorial integrity.
In response to the announcement, Greenland’s Prime Minister, Marius Hojgaard Jensen, and Denmark’s Prime Minister, Mette Frederiksen, issued a joint statement reaffirming that Greenland’s borders and sovereignty are based on international law. They emphasized that neither annexation nor territorial claims are permissible, even under the guise of security concerns.
The European Union has shown strong support for Denmark’s stance, with Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Council President António Costa emphasizing the importance of territorial integrity and sovereignty as fundamental principles of international law.
Public Opinion in Greenland
A January survey revealed that most of Greenland’s 57,000 residents desire independence from Denmark but do not wish to join the United States. Greenlandic and Danish leaders have consistently maintained that Greenland will decide its own future, rejecting any notion of selling the island or allowing external influence to dictate its path.
Historical Context and Recent Developments
In August, Denmark had already summoned the US charge d’affaires following allegations of attempted interference in Greenland’s affairs. Reports emerged that several high-ranking US officials close to Trump had visited Greenland’s capital, Nuuk, to gauge support for closer ties with the United States.
The United States established a consulate in Greenland in June 2020, further signaling its growing interest in the Arctic region.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Jeff Landry? Jeff Landry is the Governor of Louisiana, appointed by former President Donald Trump as a special envoy to Greenland.
- Why is Greenland significant? Greenland’s strategic location, abundant natural resources, and growing importance in the Arctic region make it a valuable asset for global powers.
- What is Denmark’s response? Denmark has expressed indignation over the US appointment and emphasized its commitment to upholding international law and protecting its territorial integrity over Greenland.
- What does the European Union say? The European Union, through Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Council President António Costa, has supported Denmark’s stance on territorial integrity and sovereignty.
- What do Greenlanders think? Most Greenlanders desire independence from Denmark but do not wish to join the United States, according to a January survey.
- What recent developments have taken place? Denmark summoned the US charge d’affaires in August over allegations of interference in Greenland’s affairs. US officials reportedly visited Greenland to assess support for closer ties.
