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Iceland debates joining EU amid Trump's Greenland interest

06:17

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Katharina Kroll in Reykjavik
August 29, 2026

Some Icelanders see joining the EU as the best way to protect the island nation's sovereignty amid US President Donald Trump's ambitions to annex Greenland.

Iceland has seen a heated referendum campaign on whether to begin negotiations for European Union membership. 

Russia's war in Ukraine and security concerns, fueled by Donald Trump's interest in Greenland, have intensified the debate.

Supporters argue closer ties with the EU would strengthen Iceland's security and influence, while opponents warn membership could weaken national sovereignty and put control of key sectors such as fisheries at risk. The issue has deeply divided Icelandic society ahead of the vote on Saturday.

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