Greenland prime minister: 'No thanks' to Trump's idea of sending hospital ship to Greenland

Greenland prime minister: 'No thanks' to Trump's idea of sending hospital ship to Greenland

Greenland’s Government Rejects U.S. Offer of Medical Assistance Amid Trump’s Ongoing Interest in Arctic Territory

Denmark’s defense minister has dismissed U.S. President Donald Trump’s announcement to send a hospital ship to Greenland, stating the Arctic territory’s healthcare system is sufficient and does not require external intervention. Trump, who has long expressed interest in acquiring Greenland, claimed on Truth Social that the vessel would “take care of the many people who are sick, and not being taken care of there,” adding it was “on the way!!!” according to Danish officials.

Troels Lund Poulsen, Denmark’s defense minister, told Danish public broadcaster DR that Greenland’s population receives necessary medical care either locally or through partnerships with Danish hospitals. “There is no need for a special healthcare initiative in Greenland,” he stated, emphasizing that free, universal healthcare is already available. Greenland’s healthcare system, like Denmark’s, provides free services at the point of use, including prescription medications, supported by five regional hospitals and specialized care in Denmark when required as the system operates.

Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen reinforced this stance on social media, highlighting Denmark’s commitment to “free and equal access to health for all” and noting the same model applies to Greenland according to official statements. The Greenlandic government recently signed an agreement with Copenhagen to enhance medical treatment for patients traveling to Denmark, further underscoring existing support structures as part of bilateral cooperation.

Trump’s announcement appears to align with broader efforts to assert U.S. influence over Greenland, which he has described as critical to national security. While he has softened earlier threats to seize the territory, tensions persist with European allies and Greenlanders, who have expressed concerns about potential privatization of public services under U.S. oversight according to political analysis.

The U.S. Navy has not confirmed details of the hospital ship deployment, and Denmark’s Arctic command recently assisted a U.S. submarine crew member in Nuuk, illustrating existing but limited cooperation as documented. Analysts suggest Trump’s move reflects ongoing geopolitical maneuvering rather than an urgent healthcare need, as Greenland’s system remains robust and self-sufficient.

For investors, the situation highlights the interplay of healthcare policy, Arctic resource interests, and international diplomacy, with Greenland’s sovereignty and economic autonomy remaining central to regional stability.