Trump announces US hospital ship headed to Greenland, appoints Louisiana governor special representative

2026-02-22 - 21:32

President Donald Trump announced Saturday that the United States will send a hospital ship to Greenland to provide medical services, working with Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry, whom he appointed special representative for the territory. On Truth Social, Trump stated: "Working with the fantastic Governor of Louisiana, Jeff Landry, 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. It's on the way!!!" Governor's Response Landry responded on X: "Thank you, President @realDonaldTrump! Proud to work with you on this important issue!" The announcement follows Trump's renewed interest in US control over Greenland, citing national security concerns about Russia and China. He previously threatened sanctions against European countries opposing the move. Greenland's Rejection Greenlandic Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen swiftly rejected a similar offer Sunday, posting on Facebook: "That will be 'no thanks' from us. President Trump's idea to send a US hospital ship here to Greenland has been duly noted. But we have a public health system where care is free for citizens." Diplomatic Context Trump later withdrew sanctions threats after meeting NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte at the World Economic Forum in Davos, where they discussed a framework for potential agreement involving Greenland and the broader Arctic region. Talks between the US, Denmark, and Greenland followed. Trump has also indicated further discussions on the US Golden Dome missile defense system in relation to the territory.