On Monday, December 22, 2025, at a Palm Beach press conference, President Donald Trump said the United States "needs" Greenland for its national security. He named Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry as special envoy to the self-governing island of Denmark.
The remarks drew swift pushback from both Denmark and Greenland. Denmark's leaders emphasized that Greenland is not available for annexation, stressing that the island's status and Danish sovereignty must be upheld under international law. Greenland's authorities echoed this stance, reaffirming their commitment to existing governance arrangements and legal protections.
Any discussions led by Governor Landry will have to respect Denmark's sovereignty and Greenland's self-governing status under international law. The move marks a surprising diplomatic overture, signaling potential shifts in how the United States engages with self-governing territories.
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Trump says U.S. 'needs' Greenland, Denmark rejects any annexation
cgtn.com
