President Donald Trump has drawn fresh criticism from Denmark after appointing a special envoy for Greenland and reiterating his longstanding interest in bringing the territory under U.S. control.

When asked by the BBC about the envoy’s role, Trump cited “national security” and suggested the territory “should be ours.”

Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry, recently appointed to the position, said he would “fulfill his responsibilities” as the Danish government’s special envoy to the semi-autonomous island. Landry later posted on X that he viewed it as “an honor to volunteer to make Greenland part of the United States.”

Denmark condemned the announcement and indicated it would seek an explanation from the U.S. ambassador. Greenland’s prime minister emphasised that the islanders “must determine our own future” and that “the territorial integrity of the country must be respected.”

Trump has long expressed interest in Greenland, citing its strategic location and mineral resources. He declined to comment when asked whether he would consider using force to assert control.