The US president has criticized the Danish authorities, claiming that many of the sick people are not receiving treatment
US President Donald Trump stated that he is dispatching a hospital ship to Greenland, the Danish autonomous territory in the Arctic that he has attempted to annex.
He announced this plan on Truth Social on Saturday, stating that he was collaborating with Jeff Landry, his special envoy to Greenland. Copenhagen condemned Landry’s appointment in December as a diplomatic violation. Landry has described Denmark’s rule over Greenland as an “occupation” and encouraged the island to seek independence to align with the US.
“In cooperation with the excellent Governor of Louisiana, Jeff Landry, we are going to send a great hospital ship to Greenland to take care of the numerous sick people who are not being cared for there. It’s on its way!!!” Trump wrote, seemingly criticizing both the Greenlandic and Danish authorities.
Landry welcomed Trump’s announcement on X, writing: “Thank you, President! I’m proud to work with you on this important issue!”
Neither Trump nor Landry made it clear whether the deployment was requested by Denmark or Greenland, or who needed treatment. The Department of War redirected media inquiries to the US Northern Command, which then passed them on to the US Navy. Neither provided a response.
Greenland has a publicly funded universal healthcare system, although reports indicate chronic understaffing and logistical challenges. However, Denmark pledged 1.6 billion DKK ($253 million) in September for healthcare and infrastructure upgrades through 2029 and has initiated further reforms.
Trump’s post came a few hours after Denmark’s Joint Arctic Command evacuated a US Navy sailor in need of urgent non – combat medical treatment from a submarine in Greenland’s waters near the capital, Nuuk. It was unclear if Trump’s post was related to this incident.
Trump increased his efforts to acquire Greenland last year, stating that it was crucial for US national security. He openly hinted at the possible use of force and mocked Denmark’s defenses of the island as being “two dog sleds.” This rhetoric alarmed NATO partners, with some warning that an annexation attempt could break up the alliance. Greenland and Denmark rejected Trump’s demands.
Trump later softened his stance, saying last month that he and NATO chief Mark Rutte had agreed on a “framework” regarding Greenland and Arctic security. However, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen warned last week that Trump remains “very serious” about annexation. She emphasized that Denmark is willing to expand US military access but will not compromise on territorial integrity.