The United States has appointed Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry as its special envoy to Greenland, reflecting Washington’s intensified focus on the Arctic and its strategic significance, Reuters reported.

In a post on Truth Social on Sunday, President Donald Trump described Greenland as “essential” to national security and global interests. He said Landry would advance the safety and security of U.S. allies and reinforce the country’s broader geopolitical objectives.

Greenland’s prominence stems from its location and resources. The island hosts the Pituffik Space Base, a U.S. facility critical for missile warning systems and space surveillance, while its emerging shipping routes and mineral reserves have drawn attention from global powers. Analysts note that control over these resources and corridors is increasingly central to U.S. security planning and Arctic policy.

The envoy role comes amid heightened strategic competition in the region. Melting ice has amplified Greenland’s economic and military relevance, prompting greater involvement from the United States, Canada, and European allies, as well as scrutiny from Russia and China. Greenland also occupies a key position in NATO’s defence architecture, particularly through the Greenland‑Iceland‑United Kingdom corridor, which supports allied naval and air operations.

Landry, who assumed the Louisiana governorship in January 2024, has not clarified whether he will step down to take up the diplomatic role. Representatives for both the White House and Landry did not immediately respond to requests for comment.