Greenlandic Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen firmly declined a U.S. proposal to send a hospital ship to the island, emphasizing the territory’s commitment to its free public healthcare system. In a social media statement on February 22, Nielsen stated the autonomous Danish region is “not interested” in the offer floated by former U.S. President Donald Trump, calling it a mismatch with Greenland’s societal values.
Nielsen highlighted that Greenland’s universal healthcare system, which provides free treatment to all residents, reflects a “conscious choice” central to its identity. He contrasted this with the U.S., where medical services often incur high costs. While affirming openness to cooperation, the prime minister urged the U.S. to engage in formal dialogue “instead of” making “random outbursts on social media.”
Trump had announced plans via his Truth Social platform on February 21 to collaborate with Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry on deploying the ship, citing a need to assist Greenland’s “sick” population. The proposal follows years of U.S. strategic interest in the Arctic region, where Greenland holds geopolitical significance.
