Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre confirmed on Monday that he received a message from U.S. President Donald Trump regarding tensions over Greenland. According to reports, Trump indicated that he no longer felt bound to prioritize peace after not receiving the Nobel Peace Prize and emphasized the strategic importance of Greenland to the United States.
The message, first reported by PBS, reportedly stated that Trump sees “the world as not secure unless we have complete and total control of Greenland.” The text was forwarded to several European ambassadors in Washington. Støre did not release the message but confirmed its receipt.
Norway reiterated its position: Greenland is part of the Kingdom of Denmark, and Norway fully supports Denmark and NATO’s efforts to ensure Arctic security and stability. Støre also clarified that the Nobel Peace Prize is awarded by an independent committee, not the Norwegian government.
The controversy comes amid Trump’s threat of a 10% import tariff starting in February on goods from eight European countries, including Norway, in retaliation for their participation in Arctic security training in Greenland.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the tariff threat as “completely wrong” and stressed that a trade war benefits no one. He emphasized diplomacy and calm discussions while maintaining strong transatlantic relations.
European Union leaders, including European Council President Antonio Costa, expressed readiness to defend against coercive measures, though the UK, which is outside the EU, indicated it would not retaliate with tariffs.
Denmark’s Defense Minister and Greenland’s Foreign Minister are scheduled to meet NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte in Brussels to discuss the situation.
