Full Breakdown
Trump’s Controversial Text to Norway’s Prime Minister on Greenland and the Nobel Peace Prize
1/20/2026, 12:18:09 PM
Exchange of Messages Between Leaders
On January 18, 2026, Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre sent a text message to U.S. President Donald Trump, addressing various global issues including Greenland, Gaza, and Ukraine. Støre, who was accompanied by Finnish President Alexander Stubb, proposed a call to discuss these matters further. In his response, Trump expressed his disappointment over not receiving the Nobel Peace Prize, linking this perceived slight to his stance on Greenland. He stated, “Considering your Country decided not to give me the Nobel Peace Prize for having stopped 8 Wars PLUS, I no longer feel an obligation to think purely of Peace... but can now think about what is good and proper for the United States of America.”
Trump’s Position on Greenland
In his message, Trump asserted that Denmark could not adequately protect Greenland from threats posed by Russia and China. He questioned Denmark's ownership rights over the territory, stating, “There are no written documents; it’s only that a boat landed there hundreds of years ago.” He further claimed, “I have done more for NATO than any other person since its founding, and now NATO should do something for the United States.” Trump concluded that the world is not secure unless the U.S. has “Complete and Total Control of Greenland.”
Official Statements & Responses
Prime Minister Støre confirmed the authenticity of Trump's message and reiterated Norway's support for Denmark regarding Greenland. He emphasized the need for de-escalation in international relations and expressed opposition to Trump's recent tariff announcements. Støre clarified that the Nobel Peace Prize is awarded by an independent committee, not the Norwegian government, countering Trump's implication that Norway's actions influenced his peace efforts.
Criticism & Opposition
Trump's remarks have drawn criticism from various political commentators and analysts, who labeled his statements as “embarrassing” and potentially damaging to NATO relations. Concerns have been raised about the implications of linking Greenland's status to his disappointment over the Nobel Peace Prize, suggesting it may undermine diplomatic efforts in the Arctic region.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the text exchange has been widely reported, there are discrepancies regarding the broader implications of Trump's statements. Some sources suggest that his fixation on the Nobel Peace Prize may be influencing his foreign policy decisions, while others argue that his comments reflect a longstanding strategic interest in Greenland's resources and geopolitical significance.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Considering your Country decided not to give me the Nobel Peace Prize for having stopped 8 Wars PLUS, I no longer feel an obligation to think purely of Peace, although it will always be predominant, but can now think about what is good and proper' for the US.” — Donald Trump, U.S. President
- “Greenland is a part of the Kingdom of Denmark, and Norway fully supports the Kingdom of Denmark on this matter.” — Jonas Gahr Støre, Prime Minister of Norway
- “The World is not secure unless we have Complete and Total Control of Greenland.” — Donald Trump, U.S. President
This exchange highlights the complex interplay between international diplomacy, national interests, and personal grievances, particularly in the context of U.S.-Nordic relations.
