Numerous Canadians were displeased when U.S. President Donald Trump repeatedly suggested the idea of incorporating Canada as the 51st state of the United States.
Trump’s previous remarks about potentially acquiring Greenland, which were initially perceived as a joke, are now seen as a genuine concern.
Therefore, the recent jest made by Trump’s nominee for U.S. ambassador to Iceland, proposing that Iceland should become the 52nd state with himself as governor, did not receive a positive reception.
A circulating petition urging Iceland’s foreign minister to oppose William Long’s appointment as ambassador has garnered support, emphasizing that such comments are disrespectful to Iceland and its people who have fought for their independence.
According to Sigmar Guðmundsson, an Icelandic MP, the jokes made by Long are not amusing, especially given the ongoing discussions regarding Greenland, and are considered serious statements that lack respect for Iceland.
Following Long’s remarks, Iceland’s foreign ministry reached out to the U.S. Embassy in Iceland to confirm the authenticity of the comments, while CBC News attempted to obtain comments from relevant authorities without success.
Officially nominated by Trump, former U.S. Representative Billy Long was selected as the prospective U.S. ambassador to Iceland, prompting a humorous comment from Long about Iceland becoming the 52nd state during a recent gathering.
Long later apologized, clarifying that his remarks were made in jest in response to a light-hearted conversation, and he regretted any offense caused by his comments, reiterating that they were meant as a joke.
MP Guðmundsson expressed concerns over the disrespect shown by the U.S. towards the sovereignty of smaller nations like Iceland, emphasizing the seriousness of such comments for Iceland’s security.
Trump’s repeated threats regarding Greenland, his stance on its strategic importance to the U.S., and the deployment of military personnel by European nations to Greenland have escalated tensions in the region.
Despite the situation, Iceland’s Foreign Minister Katrín Gunnarsdóttir emphasized the strong relationship between Iceland and the U.S., stating that Iceland is not currently fearful of similar intentions towards their country.