Donald Trump announced that the United States would send a hospital ship to Greenland, the self-governing Danish territory he has previously expressed interest in acquiring and has even threatened to take by force.
Trump’s remarks have further strained relations between the United States and Denmark, while also drawing international attention to the strategic importance of the Arctic region. He has repeatedly argued that resource-rich Greenland is critical to US and NATO security, particularly in countering the influence of Russia and China.
In a social media post, Trump said the hospital vessel would provide treatment to many “sick” residents of Greenland but did not specify who would receive care or how many people would benefit.
“We are going to send a great hospital boat to Greenland to take care of the many people who are sick, and not being taken care of there,” he wrote, adding, “It’s on the way!!!”
The post, shared on his Truth Social platform, included what appeared to be an AI-generated image of the USNS Mercy - a 272-meter hospital ship usually based in Southern California - sailing toward snow-covered mountains. It remains unclear whether this specific vessel will be deployed.
Trump stated the mission would be coordinated with Jeff Landry, whom he named as his envoy to the Arctic territory in December.
Earlier this month, Landry shared a photo from Mardi Gras celebrations in New Orleans showing him with two individuals holding Greenland’s flag, describing them as “wonderful people of Greenland.”
Meanwhile, Frederik X recently visited Greenland, where he enjoys strong public support, amid growing concerns over Trump’s renewed interest in the territory.
Trump had eased his earlier threats to seize Greenland after reaching a “framework” agreement with Mark Rutte aimed at expanding US influence in the region.
