Danish military evacuates U.S. submariner who needed urgent medical care off Greenland while Trump orders hospital ship to island
Fortune
by The Associated PressFebruary 22, 2026
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The Danish military has evacuated a crew member of a U.S. submarine off Greenland's coast for urgent medical care, showcasing a rare instance of international cooperation in a strained diplomatic context. The incident unfolded as U.S. President Donald Trump announced plans to send a hospital ship to Greenland, claiming the territory's residents lack adequate healthcare. This move came despite Denmark's assurance of a robust health system, with Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen defending her country's capabilities and dismissing Trump's assertion as unnecessary interference.
The situation highlights growing tensions between Denmark and the U.S., particularly over Trump's persistent interest in Greenland, which is rich in natural resources and strategically significant. Historically strong ties between the NATO allies have been tested by Trump's rhetoric about potentially acquiring the island, raising concerns among Danish officials. The evacuation of the submariner was conducted by Denmark's Arctic Command using a Seahawk helicopter deployed on an inspection ship, underscoring Denmark's role as a key security partner in the region.
The deployment of Trump's hospital ship has sparked criticism from Greenlandic politicians and丹麦官员, who argue that it is unnecessary and undermines efforts to build sustainable healthcare infrastructure. Aaja Chemnitz, a Greenlandic politician, noted that the proposed vessel is "poorly maintained" and does not contribute to long-term solutions. This diplomatic spat raises questions about the future of U.S.-Danish relations and the stability of Arctic cooperation, which are critical for business interests in the region.
For businesses, this situation matters as it reflects shifting geopolitical dynamics and potential challenges in Arctic resource exploration and trade routes. The strained relationship between Denmark and the U.S., coupled with Trump's unilateral actions, could impact international agreements and investment opportunities in the Arctic. Businesses operating in or near Greenland should monitor these developments for potential disruptions to operations and partnerships.
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Originally published on Fortune on 2/22/2026