The repeated remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump about potentially making Canada the 51st state were received negatively by many Canadians. Additionally, Trump’s previous jest regarding taking control of Greenland has now turned into a serious concern. Recently, the U.S. ambassador nominee to Iceland made a light-hearted comment suggesting Iceland could become the 52nd state and that he should serve as its governor, which was met with disapproval.
A petition has been circulating urging Iceland’s foreign minister to reject William Long’s nomination for ambassador, citing the offense caused by such remarks. Icelandic MP Sigmar Guðmundsson emphasized the inappropriateness of the comments, calling for more respect towards Iceland and its people.
The Icelandic foreign ministry has reached out to the U.S. Embassy in Iceland to verify the validity of the statements attributed to Long. Despite attempts to gather comments, responses have not been received from the U.S. State Department, the U.S. Embassy in Iceland, or Iceland’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Following the nomination of Long as the U.S. ambassador to Iceland, there was a quick reaction in Reykjavík, with a significant number of individuals signing the petition for his rejection. Long later apologized, clarifying that his remarks were made in jest and not to be taken seriously, especially in the current sensitive diplomatic climate.
Icelandic MP Guðmundsson expressed concern over the lack of respect shown by such jokes, emphasizing the seriousness of the implications for smaller states like Iceland. Trump’s persistent threats regarding Greenland have escalated tensions, with European countries sending troops to the region in response. Trump’s unwavering stance on Greenland’s strategic importance to the U.S. and his considerations for imposing tariffs on dissenting nations have further heightened the situation.
In a recent press conference, Iceland’s Foreign Minister Gunnarsdóttir reassured the public about the country’s strong relationship with the U.S., indicating no immediate fears of becoming the next target for territorial ambitions.