Nuuk: Greenland on Sunday announced that it does not require medical assistance from other nations, turning down US President Donald Trump's proposal to send a hospital ship to the island, which he has expressed interest in acquiring.

According to Anadolu Agency, Trump, using his social media platform Truth Social, revealed on Saturday that the US, in collaboration with Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry, who has been appointed as a special representative for Greenland, planned to deploy a hospital ship to the island. In his statement, Trump mentioned the initiative to care for the sick individuals in Greenland who he claimed were not receiving adequate care.

However, the response from Greenland was unequivocal. Greenlandic Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen took to Facebook to express the nation's stance, stating, "That will be 'no thanks' from us." He further clarified that Greenland maintains a public health system where healthcare services are provided free of charge to its citizens, making external medical assistance unnecessary.

In recent months, Trump's interest in gaining control over Greenland has resurfaced, citing strategic concerns involving Russia and China. His initial approach included threats of sanctions against European countries that opposed this move. However, after discussions with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, Trump retracted these threats. Following these meetings, a framework was reportedly established to explore a potential agreement concerning Greenland and the broader Arctic region. Subsequent talks were anticipated between the US, Denmark, and Greenland.

Additionally, Trump indicated that future discussions would encompass the US' Golden Dome missile defense system, particularly in relation to Greenland, further highlighting the strategic significance of the region in US foreign policy considerations.