Trump's pick for Iceland ambassador apologizes for joking about Arctic nation becoming 52nd state

Fox News - WorldCenter-RightEN 3 min read 100% complete by Landon MionJanuary 16, 2026 at 09:12 AM

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Former Congressman Billy Long, nominated by Donald Trump to be ambassador to Iceland, apologized for joking about Iceland becoming the "52nd state" with him as governor. Long made the comment privately to House lawmakers, later explaining it was an off-the-cuff remark among friends. This comes amid renewed threats from Trump to acquire Greenland, a Danish territory, potentially through military force. Trump claims that if the U.S. doesn't take Greenland, Russia or China will. These threats have been met with opposition from Denmark, other European countries, and even some U.S. lawmakers, who fear such action would violate NATO's Article V and potentially end the alliance. Iceland, a NATO member, has also expressed opposition to Trump's threats regarding Greenland.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Randy Fine 40% Missouri 40% China ×250% Russia ×250% Jeff Landry ×260% Denmark ×260% NATO ×370% United States ×270% Iceland ×580% Greenland ×980% Billy Long ×390% Donald Trump ×590%

Keywords

iceland ambassador 90% greenland acquisition 80% billy long 80% donald trump 70% nato 60% 52nd state 60% arctic region 50% u.s. foreign policy 50% jeff landry 40%