Oslo: US President Donald Trump has informed Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store that he no longer feels bound to prioritize peace exclusively, while reiterating his demand for US control over Greenland.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, Trump expressed his dissatisfaction over Norway's decision not to award him the Nobel Peace Prize, which he claimed has influenced his approach to international matters.
In his letter, Trump addressed Store directly, stating, "Dear Jonas: Since your country decided not to give me the Nobel Peace Prize for stopping 8 wars PLUS, I no longer feel an obligation to think purely of peace, although it will always be dominant, but can now think about what is good and proper for the United States." The letter, initially revealed by PBS NewsHour foreign correspondent Nick Schifrin, was later confirmed by the Norwegian prime minister's office.
Trump also questioned Denmark's sovereignty over Greenland in the same message, arguing that US involvement is essential to protect the island from Russia or China. "Denmark cannot protect this land from Russia or China . The world is not safe unless we have complete and total control of Greenland," he added.
Store responded to the letter, noting that it was in reply to a joint message he and Finnish President Alexander Stubb had sent to Trump. The message opposed Washington's plans to impose higher tariffs on Norway, Finland, and other countries, and requested a phone conversation among the leaders to de-escalate tensions.
He emphasized that Norway's stance on Greenland is unchanged, affirming, "Greenland is part of the Kingdom of Denmark, and Norway fully supports the Kingdom of Denmark in this matter." Store also highlighted Norway's support for NATO's efforts to maintain Arctic security and stability.
Addressing Trump's claim about the Nobel Peace Prize, Store clarified that it is awarded by the independent Norwegian Nobel Committee and not by the Norwegian government. Trump later echoed his stance on Greenland on Truth Social, asserting the need to address security threats in the Arctic.
Greenland, a self-governing territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, has drawn US interest due to its strategic location and mineral resources, amid concerns over Russian and Chinese activities. Trump announced plans for Washington to impose 10% tariffs on goods from eight European nations, including Denmark and Norway, starting February 1, escalating to 25% by June, in response to their opposition to US control of Greenland.
The affected European countries issued a joint statement condemning the US threat, reaffirming their commitment to Arctic security.