Former President Donald Trump’s weekend Truth Social post lit up global news: a U.S. hospital ship en route to Greenland. The Danish autonomous region, scene of Trump’s prior buyout bids, now hosts this aid vessel—but on whose urgent behest?
Trump spotlighted his work with Jeff Landry, the Louisiana governor serving as his envoy. Landry’s Copenhagen debut in December sparked outrage, viewed as meddling; he called Danish governance colonial and rallied for independence to embrace U.S. partnership.
‘With fantastic Gov. Jeff Landry of Louisiana, we are sending a great HOSPITAL BOAT to GREENLAND for the many sick people not getting care—it’s on the way!!!’ Trump proclaimed. Landry celebrated on X, thanking Trump for tackling the vital matter together.
Opacity reigns: no word on the requesting party. Official responses? War Department deflected to Northern Command, Navy ignored follow-ups.
Universal healthcare defines Greenland, yet reports detail enduring staff voids and transport snags. Denmark vowed 1.6 billion DKK ($253M) last September for systemic overhauls by 2029, with work in progress.
Fresh twist: Danish rescuers had pulled a U.S. Navy sailor from a submarine in Nuuk-area waters hours earlier, rushing him for non-combat care. Did this spur Trump? Speculation swirls.
Beyond benevolence, the move spotlights Arctic ambitions. Trump’s persistence underscores U.S. stakes in Greenland’s minerals, routes, and bases, testing Danish sovereignty and bilateral ties. As the ship sails, it charts a course through aid, autonomy, and alliance debates.