Trump’s Greenland threats cast a shadow on Iceland’s vote on EU membership talks

Icelandic voters went to the polls on Saturday to decide whether the country should resume long-stalled negotiations to join the European Union. The referendum is taking place under the shadow of U.S. President Donald Trump’s threats regarding control over nearby Greenland. Approximately 265,000 eligible voters are tasked with deciding whether to trigger accession negotiations with the European Commission, covering 35 areas ranging from the economy to human rights. Proponents argue that EU membership could provide a protective bulwark against potential future ambitions from the U.S. under Trump, while opponents fear that joining the bloc could jeopardize Iceland’s lucrative fishing industry and national sovereignty. Prime Minister Kristrún Frostadóttir has sought to reassure voters that a 'yes' vote is not the final step, noting that a second referendum would be held if a membership agreement is reached. Conversely, former Prime Minister Katrín Jakobsdóttir expressed opposition, stating that Iceland is better off maintaining its current close collaboration with the EU without the compromises required by full membership.