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President Donald Trump announced on Saturday that he will send a hospital ship to Greenland, a Danish autonomous territory he has long shown interest in and previously threatened to take by force. His statements have heightened tensions between the US and Denmark, drawing global attention to the Arctic. Trump argues that Greenland, rich in minerals, is crucial for US and NATO security amidst concerns about Russia and China.
He stated that the ship would serve to care for many “sick” individuals in Greenland but did not specify who they were or how many people the vessel would assist. In a social media post, Trump said, “We are going to send a great hospital ship to Greenland to help many who are unwell and without proper care there. It’s on its way!!!” The post, shared on his Truth Social platform, included a digitally created image showing the USNS Mercy—a vessel about 894 feet long, normally based in Southern California—heading toward snow-covered mountains.
It remains uncertain whether this is the actual ship being dispatched. Trump indicated the operation would be coordinated with Governor Jeff Landry of Louisiana, who was appointed as Trump’s Arctic envoy in December. Earlier this month, Landry shared an image of himself with two others at a notable New Orleans ball, holding a Greenland flag, calling their visit a gesture of hospitality.
Earlier this week, Denmark’s King Frederik X visited Greenland, where he is highly popular, amid growing concerns over Trump’s interest in the territory. Trump toned down his previous threats to seize Greenland last month after reaching a “framework” agreement with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte to bolster American influence there.





