Many Canadians were displeased when U.S. President Donald Trump repeatedly suggested making Canada the 51st state. Trump’s previous comments about acquiring Greenland, once deemed as a joke, now pose a legitimate concern.
Trump’s nominee for U.S. ambassador to Iceland sparked controversy by joking that Iceland should become the 52nd state with him as its governor. This remark did not sit well with many, prompting a petition urging Iceland’s foreign minister to oppose William Long’s nomination.
The petition emphasized that such remarks, although possibly made in jest, are offensive to Iceland and its people, who have fought for their freedom and maintained a friendly relationship with the United States.
Reacting to the incident, Iceland MP Sigmar Guðmundsson expressed disapproval, calling for Long’s rejection as ambassador and urging the U.S. to nominate a person who demonstrates more respect for Iceland and its citizens.
Following the uproar, Iceland’s foreign ministry reached out to the U.S. Embassy in Iceland to verify the authenticity of the comments. Requests for comments from the U.S. State Department, the U.S. Embassy in Iceland, and Iceland’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs remain unanswered by CBC News.
‘Nothing serious about that’
Long, Trump’s official nominee for Iceland ambassador, apologized after the incident, explaining that his remarks were meant as a light-hearted response to a conversation about Greenland. Long clarified that his comments were not intended seriously and apologized to anyone who may have been offended.
Despite the apology, Iceland MP Guðmundsson characterized Long’s comments as a sign of growing disrespect from the U.S. towards the sovereignty of smaller nations like Iceland. He emphasized the seriousness of such remarks, especially considering the current tensions between Greenland and the U.S.
Trump’s repeated threats to claim Greenland and his recent statements deeming anything less than U.S. control of the island as unacceptable have escalated tensions. European countries have responded by deploying military personnel to Greenland at Denmark’s request.
In a press conference preceding Long’s comments, Iceland’s Foreign Minister Katrín Gunnarsdóttir affirmed the strong relationship between Iceland and the U.S., stating that although co-operation is excellent, there is no immediate fear of Iceland being the next target.
Jan. 14, 2026 | U.S. President Donald Trump stands firm on his Greenland takeover plan as a Danish delegation meets with officials in Washington. Quebec Premier François Legault steps