Greenland’s prime minister has responded after Donald Trump posted an unusual message on social media.
The comments come after Trump previously suggested the US could take Greenland by force, before later appearing to soften that position.
Trump has repeatedly argued that the US should assume control of Greenland for what he calls “security reasons”. Denmark has pushed back, insisting Greenland’s future is not something to be negotiated.
In a new turn, Trump claimed he planned to send a “hospital ship” to Greenland to help “take care” of people there.
Greenland’s prime minister, however, declined the offer—using the moment to highlight the country’s publicly funded healthcare model in a way some interpreted as a pointed contrast with the US system.
Jens-Frederik Nielsen, the Greenlandic prime minister, wrote on Facebook on Sunday: “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.”
Danish prime minister Mette Frederiksen also weighed in online with a message that appeared to allude to the situation, without naming Trump directly.
She wrote: “I am grateful to live in a country where there is free and equal access to healthcare for everyone. Where it is not insurance coverage or personal wealth that determines whether you receive proper treatment.
“The same approach applies in Greenland.”
In his post on Truth Social, Trump framed the plan as a humanitarian move, saying: “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!!!”
The US healthcare system has faced growing scrutiny in recent years, largely because access and costs are often tied to private insurance.
Critics argue it can be inefficient and unequal, with bills sometimes reaching tens of thousands of dollars and coverage varying depending on the condition, the provider, or where a patient is treated.
One high-profile flashpoint for public anger has been the case of Luigi Mangione, who drew intense attention after being accused of murdering UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson.
Even with charges as serious as first degree murder, Mangione has been portrayed by some as a folk hero, reflecting the depth of frustration many feel about the healthcare system.
In the US, healthcare bills continue to be cited as a major factor in personal bankruptcy, despite efforts over the years aimed at reform.