Greenland’s PM Jens-Frederik Nielsen asked Donald Trump to talk to him instead of making “random outbursts on social media,” after the U.S. president announced he was sending a hospital boat to “take care” of people on the island.
The prime minister responded “it’s going to be a no thanks from us,” while plugging the merits of Greenland’s healthcare system.
Sunday, February 22nd saw Trump declare that a hospital ship would be sent to Greenland to provide medical care to what he described as “many sick people.” The unexpected announcement has raised questions about Washington’s intentions in the Arctic, where geopolitical competition with Russia and China continues to intensify.
Trump did not clarify who would be treated or how many patients were involved, leaving the scope and purpose of the mission unclear.
The decision was accompanied by an image appearing to show the USNS Mercy heading toward Greenland, although it remains uncertain whether this specific vessel will be used. The ship is typically based in Southern California and is one of the largest hospital ships operated by the U.S. Navy.
Denmark’s Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen said Greenland’s healthcare system already meets local needs and that specialised treatment can be provided in Denmark when necessary. His comments suggest the deployment was not requested by Danish or Greenlandic authorities.
Previously on Saturday, February 21st the Danish military evacuated a U.S. submarine crew member by helicopter near Nuuk, Greenland’s capital. According to the military’s statement, the individual required urgent medical treatment and was subsequently taken to Nuuk hospital.
The move comes amid broader U.S. efforts to strengthen its strategic presence in Greenland, which Washington considers critical for security and Arctic influence. The United States has recently sought closer cooperation with Denmark and Greenland as part of efforts to counter Russian and Chinese activities in the region.
