Trump's Greenland envoy starts visit to build ties amid tensions

President Donald Trump's special envoy to Greenland, Jeff Landry, arrived in the capital Nuuk on Monday for his first visit to the Arctic island.

"I'm here simply to build relationships, to look, to listen and to learn," Landry said after stepping off an official US plane.

Landry, who is also governor of Louisiana, traveled with a small group for a business summit and the opening of a new US consulate. An American doctor accompanying him said he volunteered to assess medical needs in Greenland, a move Greenland's health minister Anna Wangenheim called deeply problematic.

Greenlandic Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen said the territory is not for sale and that Greenlanders have the right to self-determination. He noted a good tone in talks with Landry and US Ambassador to Denmark Ken Howery, but said no parallel discussions would occur while higher-level talks continue.

Greenland's foreign minister Mute Egede said the United States has not given up on acquiring the territory. "We have our red line. The Americans' starting point has not changed either," he said.

Trump has pushed to take control of Greenland, citing its importance for US national security. After he ruled out using force, a working group was formed to resolve the dispute. The United States is still seeking a larger military presence.

Landry said Trump told him to go to Greenland and make friends. He suggested past US administrations had ignored the island. Asked if Trump still wants Greenland to become part of the United States, Landry said to ask the president.

Greenlandic businesswoman and former politician Maliina Abelsen declined an invitation to meet Landry, saying the timing was not appropriate after recent US pressure. MP Naaja H. Nathanielsen also said she would not attend, calling the situation serious.

Jorgen Boassen, a Greenlandic Trump supporter, accompanied Landry on a tour of the city. The envoy also met a former mayor and business leaders. The visit took place without an official invitation.