US President Donald Trump has appointed Jeff Landry, Louisiana’s Republican governor, as the US special envoy to Greenland. Greenland is a semi-autonomous island under Denmark. Trump praised Landry, saying he understands how "essential Greenland is to our national security" and that he will work to advance US interests. Greenland’s Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen responded, saying "The appointment of a special envoy does not change anything for us. We decide our own future. Greenland belongs to Greenlanders, and territorial integrity must be respected." Denmark strongly protested the move. Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen called it "deeply upsetting" and warned Washington to respect Danish sovereignty. He told Danish TV: "We cannot accept actions that undermine our territorial integrity." Governor Landry wrote on social media that serving as envoy was an honor and a volunteer role to "make Greenland a part of the United States," but it would not interfere with his duties as governor. Trump has shown keen interest in Greenland due to its strategic location and mineral wealth. He has not ruled out using force to acquire the island, a stance that shocks Denmark, a NATO ally. Greenland has self-government over many affairs since 1979 but Denmark controls defense and foreign policy. While many Greenlanders want full independence from Denmark, polls show strong opposition to joining the US. This row happens amid rising competition in the Arctic, where melting ice opens new shipping routes and rich mineral access. Greenland’s position is vital for US and NATO security, being on the shortest missile route between Russia and the US.