On Monday, December 22nd, President Trump reiterated the United States’ need to have Greenland, citing national security concerns rather than the pursuit of critical minerals.
President Trump appointed Louisiana Republican Governor Jeff Landry as the Greenland Ambassador on Sunday, emphasizing Landry’s understanding of “the importance of Greenland to our national security and his commitment to advancing our country’s interests to ensure the safety, security, and survival of our allies and the entire world.”
On Monday, Trump, alongside Defense Secretary Hagess, Secretary of State Rubio, and Navy Secretary John Phelan, held a press conference at the Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida, announcing the approval of constructing two latest “Trump-class” supercarriers, with plans for 20 to 25 more in the future.
During the press conference, Trump once again discussed the significance of Greenland to the United States, stating, “We need Greenland for national security, not for critical minerals.”
The President explained that the U.S. possesses critical minerals in many other places and also collaborates with other countries. “We need Greenland for national security. Look at Greenland, it’s full of Russian and Chinese ships,” Trump said.
Discussing Denmark’s ownership of Greenland, the President also highlighted America’s longstanding historical footprint in Greenland.
On Sunday, Landry took to his X account to express gratitude for President Trump’s appointment, stating, “I am honored to serve in this volunteer position to make Greenland a part of America.”
In subsequent posts on Monday, Landry reiterated that he would not resign from his position as Governor of Louisiana and elaborated on his responsibilities. “All we have to do is have a pleasant conversation with the people of Greenland,” Landry said.
Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen expressed deep unease about Landry’s appointment on Monday and said that he would meet with the U.S. Ambassador to Denmark regarding this matter.
President Trump has long been attempting to acquire Greenland, first proposing the idea during his first term. After being reelected in 2024, Trump once again pushed for the acquisition of Greenland.