Denmark’s Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen stated Sunday that Greenland does not require medical assistance from other countries, responding to a claim by US President Donald Trump that he was sending a hospital ship to the autonomous Danish territory.
Healthcare Access in Greenland
According to Minister Poulsen, the Greenlandic population already has access to necessary healthcare, receiving treatment either within Greenland or in Denmark for specialized care. Healthcare is free to residents in both Greenland and Denmark. Five regional hospitals operate across the Arctic island, with the Nuuk hospital serving the entire territory.
President Trump announced on his social media platform, Truth Social, that a hospital ship was “on the way” to Greenland to care for those he claimed were not receiving adequate medical attention. Minister Poulsen indicated he was unaware of the ship’s potential arrival.
US Interest in Greenland
Trump has previously expressed a desire for the US to control Greenland, citing security concerns. He has since stepped back from earlier threats of annexation following a “framework” deal with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, intended to increase US influence.
Separately, Denmark’s Arctic Command reported evacuating a US submarine crew member near Nuuk on Saturday after the sailor requested urgent medical attention.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was President Trump’s claim regarding Greenland?
President Trump claimed he was sending a hospital ship to Greenland to care for people he said were not receiving adequate medical care.
What is Denmark’s position on the need for outside medical assistance?
Denmark’s Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen stated that Greenland does not need medical assistance from other countries, as its population already has access to healthcare in Greenland or Denmark.
Has the US previously attempted to acquire Greenland?
President Trump has expressed a desire for the US to control Greenland, though he has backed off earlier threats of annexation after reaching a deal with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.
Given the ongoing diplomatic complexities surrounding Greenland, what impact might these exchanges have on future US-European relations?
