Former President Donald Trump is making headlines once again with his asserted interest in Greenland, as he recently announced Ken Howery as the new U.S. ambassador to Denmark. This renewed focus arises from Trump’s belief in the strategic importance of Greenland, which has previously been the subject of his national security concerns.
Howery, known for his time as the U.S. ambassador to Sweden, is set to replace Alan Leventhal to represent American interests closer to home. On Truth Social, Trump expressed, “It is a great pleasure for me to announce Ken Howery as my choice to be the United States ambassador to the Kingdom of Denmark. Ken is a globally renowned entrepreneur, investor, and diplomat.” The announcement, made late on Sunday, marks another chapter in Trump's complex relationship with Denmark—one filled with his controversial proposition to purchase Greenland back in 2019.
After Trump controversially suggested buying Greenland, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen characterized the proposal as “absurd,” which provoked Trump to cancel his planned state visit to Denmark. Yet, the former president has not let the past deter him. This latest appointment coincides with statements asserting the need for U.S. ownership or control of the island, reinforcing the strategic imperative those within his administration see for the region.
Trump stated, “For purposes of National Security and Freedom throughout the World, the United States of America feels the ownership and control of Greenland is an absolute necessity.” While he did not explicitly call for the purchase of the territory, this rhetoric aligns closely with his earlier ambitions during his presidency.
The former president's renewed propositions have stirred up conversations not just about Greenland but also concerning other territorial aspirations he has hinted at, including control over the Panama Canal. Such statements have ignited discontent among neighboring nations, particularly Panama, where the president responded emphatically, emphasizing the sovereign rights of their territory.
The political dynamics surrounding Howery’s appointment as U.S. ambassador to Denmark will be closely watched. His background as someone entrenched not only in business but also with diplomatic experience sets the stage for potential changes to U.S.-Danish relations. His influence as ambassador is anticipated to play a key role as the Biden administration navigates its policies vis-à-vis Greenland, which is believed to harbor vast mineral resources and is strategically located between North America and Europe.
Following the announcement, Danish news outlets, including Ritzau, have sought responses from Prime Minister Frederiksen’s office. The political maneuvering by Trump, especially considering his tumultuous past interactions with Denmark, raises questions about how this renewed interest could affect diplomatic relations. Will Howery be able to mend fences and facilitate dialogue on matters concerning Greenland, or will Trump's presidency cast a long shadow over U.S.-Denmark diplomatic efforts?
What remains clear is Trump’s determination to assert U.S. interests abroad, particularly as he re-envisions the role of traditional diplomacy. The rhetoric about control over Greenland indicates Trump's broader concept of American presence and influence globally. This development continues to build on the foundations he laid during his presidency, capturing the interest of international observers and the media.
Howery’s appointment can possibly signal future negotiations on matters of security and resources, focusing not merely on Greenland but on the Arctic region, which is becoming increasingly significant due to climate change and its geopolitical ramifications. It remains to be seen how this will play out, especially against the backdrop of shifting global dynamics.
With the curtain rising on this new chapter of U.S.-Danish relations, Howery finds himself at the epicenter of these historical discussions. His actions will be evaluated against Trump’s controversial ambitions, making it imperative for both sides to navigate these waters carefully to avoid repeating past mistakes.
Overall, it looks like Trump's presidency is not yet finished shaping the narrative around Greenland and its standing within U.S. foreign policy. The appointment of Ken Howery could either solidify or destabilize relationships based on historical aspirations and modern-day pragmatism.
