Trump Ambassador Forced To Apologize
Former Missouri Congressman Billy Long, President Donald Trump’s nominee for U.S. ambassador to Iceland, issued an apology Thursday after lighthearted remarks were interpreted abroad as politically serious.
Long said comments suggesting Iceland could hypothetically become a U.S. state — with himself jokingly mentioned as governor — were made in a private, casual setting and were never intended as a policy statement.
“There was absolutely nothing serious about it,” Long told Arctic Today. He explained that the conversation began when others joked about Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry hypothetically governing Greenland. “If anyone took offense, I apologize.”
Long emphasized that he respects Iceland’s sovereignty and said his focus is on diplomacy and strengthening ties between the two NATO allies.
“I look forward to working with the people of Iceland,” he said. “That is my priority.”
Iceland Seeks Clarification as Small Protest Emerges
Following the remarks, Iceland’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs reportedly contacted the U.S. Embassy in Reykjavík to confirm the accuracy of the statements, according to Icelandic outlet MBL.
A small petition opposing Long’s appointment gathered roughly 2,000 signatures — a modest figure in a nation of nearly 400,000 people. Icelandic lawmaker Sigmar Guðmundsson said the comments underscored broader concerns about security in the Arctic region.
Long later said he was unaware of the reaction at the time and reiterated that the remarks were meant as humor, not diplomacy.
Greenland Debate Fuels Regional Sensitivities
The controversy comes as President Trump continues to highlight the strategic importance of Greenland, citing increased military and economic activity by Russia and China in the Arctic.
Trump has argued that the United States must protect its national security interests in the region, stating recently that the U.S. “will do something on Greenland.”
Officials from Denmark pushed back following meetings this week with Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Danish leaders acknowledged ongoing disagreements with Washington over Arctic policy.
Greenland’s prime minister reaffirmed that the territory remains aligned with Denmark, NATO, and the European Union.
U.S. Lawmakers Divided on Arctic Strategy
Some members of Congress have warned that aggressive rhetoric could strain alliances within NATO. Senator Mitch McConnell cautioned that forced action could harm long-standing partnerships.
Others argue the opposite — that failing to act risks surrendering strategic ground to global competitors. Florida Rep. Randy Fine recently introduced legislation proposing Greenland be offered U.S. statehood, calling it a “vital national security asset.”
Bottom Line for Readers
While Long’s remarks were widely acknowledged as a joke, the reaction underscores how sensitive Arctic security issues have become. As global powers increase their presence near America’s northern flank, even casual comments can carry diplomatic weight.
Long’s nomination now moves forward amid a broader debate over how the United States should protect its interests in the rapidly changing Arctic — a region increasingly central to national security, energy, and global stability.
