Trump says sending 'great hospital boat' to Greenland
Deutsche Welle
February 22, 2026
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US President Donald Trump announced plans to send a hospital boat to Greenland, a semi-autonomous Danish territory, stating it would help treat many "sick" individuals who are not receiving adequate care. Trump made the announcement on his Truth Social platform, though he provided no specifics about the number of people or the nature of their illness. The move comes amid growing tensions between the US and Europe over control of Greenland, a strategically significant Arctic territory rich in minerals.
Greenland, the world's largest island, is self-governing but remains part of the Kingdom of Denmark. Trump has repeatedly expressed interest in acquiring the territory, even threatening to take it by force if necessary. This rhetoric has heightened tensions with Denmark and its NATO allies. Earlier this week, Denmark's King Frederik X visited Greenland to demonstrate unity with the territory, following Trump's aggressive push for greater US influence.
Trump appointed Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry as his envoy to Greenland in December, signaling a renewed focus on the region. The hospital boat initiative raises questions about whether it was requested by Danish authorities or if there is a specific health crisis in Greenland that requires intervention. While Trump linked the mission to aiding sick individuals, it also appears to align with broader US efforts to assert influence in the Arctic.
The announcement comes after Denmark's Joint Arctic Command evacuated a US submariner needing urgent medical attention near Nuuk, Greenland's capital. However, it remains unclear if this incident is directly related to Trump's hospital boat initiative. The move is likely part of ongoing US attempts to strengthen ties with Greenland and counterbalance European influence in the region.
This development highlights the growing geopolitical stakes in Greenland, particularly its strategic importance for US national security and resource extraction interests. As tensions between Washington and Europe escalate over control of the territory, the hospital boat initiative adds another layer to this complex diplomatic landscape.
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Originally published on Deutsche Welle on 2/22/2026