Greenland has firmly rejected Donald Trump's offer to send a US hospital ship, highlighting its confidence in its own healthcare system and sparking diplomatic exchanges that reveal underlying tensions over the island's sovereignty.

Last Saturday,Trump took to Truth Socialto announce that the US was dispatching a hospital vessel to Greenland.

'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!!!' he wrote, accompanying an illustration of the USNS Mercy, a naval hospital ship.

It was an unexpected move, particularly since Greenland, an autonomous Danish territory, already has a robust healthcare system.

The US president's claim appeared to be aimed at asserting American influence in the Arctic, a region gaining strategic importance due to its rich mineral resources and melting ice caps. Trump has long expressed interest in acquiring Greenland, arguing it would bolster US security.

The appointment ofLandry, a Louisiana politician, as a special envoy to Greenland in December further fueled speculation about Washington's intent.

Greenland's leadership responded swiftly. Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsenposted a clear message on Facebook, 'That will be 'no thanks' from us.'

Maanngaanniit qujaannarpugut. Præsident Trumpip amerikarmiut umiarsuaat napparsimavik Kalaallit Nunaannukaanniaaraa paasivarput. Nunatsinnili akeqanngitsumik tamanit atorneqarsinnaasumik...

He underlined that Greenland's healthcare system is free and publicly funded, a fundamental aspect of their society. President Trump's idea of ​​sending an American hospital ship here to Greenland has been noted. But we have a public healthcare system where treatment is free for citizens. It is a conscious choice. And a fundamental part of our society. It is not like that in the USA, where it costs money to go to the doctor,' Nielsen said.

His tone conveyed a mix of politeness and resolve.

Source: International Business Times UK