Frustrated Over Nobel, Trump Links Greenland Takeover to Personal Grievance in Leaked Message

In a startling revelation that has further strained transatlantic relations, US President Donald Trump has reportedly linked his aggressive push to acquire Greenland to lingering resentment over not receiving the Nobel Peace Prize, according to diplomatic sources and media reports.

Text Message Sparks Diplomatic Shockwaves

According to reports first published by PBS News, Trump sent a text message to Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre on January 18 expressing frustration over the Nobel Peace Prize. In the message, Trump allegedly wrote that Norway had “never given” him the prize despite what he described as stopping “eight wars,” adding that he could no longer prioritise peace in the same way.

The message concluded with a claim that “total possession of Greenland” by the United States was necessary for global security. The contents of the message were later confirmed by Prime Minister Støre.

Nobel Prize Authority Clarified by Norway

Responding to the communication, Støre clarified that the Norwegian government has no role in awarding the Nobel Peace Prize, which is decided by an independent Norwegian Nobel Committee. The clarification came amid growing concern over the tone and implications of the US president’s remarks.

Tariff Threats Add to European Concerns

The message reportedly followed a joint appeal by Norwegian and Finnish leaders urging de-escalation after Trump threatened to impose higher tariffs on eight European countries — Norway, Denmark, Sweden, Finland, Germany, France, the United Kingdom and the Netherlands.

European leaders have warned that such economic measures could further destabilise already fragile transatlantic ties.

Trump Repeats Greenland Claims

Trump has repeatedly questioned Denmark’s sovereignty over Greenland, arguing that Copenhagen lacks the capacity to defend the territory against potential threats from Russia or China. Posting on Truth Social, Trump reiterated that the acquisition of Greenland “would be done,” citing long-standing NATO warnings about Russian activity in the Arctic.

He also dismissed historical claims over Greenland as outdated, framing US interest as a matter of strategic necessity.

Denmark and Greenland Reject Any Sale

Denmark and Greenland have strongly rejected any suggestion of a sale, reaffirming that Greenland is not for sale under any circumstances. Leaders in Copenhagen and Nuuk have described the tariff threats as a form of political blackmail and warned of a dangerous downward spiral in US-European relations.

NATO Unity at Risk

European officials are now discussing coordinated responses, including potential retaliatory measures, amid fears that the standoff could undermine NATO cohesion. Diplomats warn that continued escalation may weaken collective security arrangements at a time of heightened geopolitical tension.

The episode underscores growing uncertainty in transatlantic relations, with the Greenland dispute emerging as a flashpoint that could have long-term consequences for global diplomacy.