Nobel Prize Not Decided by Government, Says Norway PM After Trump’s Message

Washington: Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Storey said on Monday that he had received a personal message from US President Donald Trump on Sunday afternoon. In this message, Trump had said that his insistence on occupying Greenland is related to his anger at not receiving the Nobel Peace Prize. This revelation came at a time when tension seems to be increasing between America and many European countries regarding Greenland.

What did Trump say in the message?

According to Storey, Trump wrote that he stopped many wars in the world, yet he did not receive the Nobel Peace Prize. For this reason, now he will give priority only to “America’s interests”. He also added that bringing Greenland under US control is necessary for global security.

How did the Norwegian Prime Minister respond?

Storey clearly told Trump that the Norwegian government does not decide the Nobel Prize. He said that this is decided by an independent committee and the government has no interference in it. He also reiterated this in his public statement.

In what context did this conversation take place?

Prime Minister Storey said that he and Finnish President Alexander Stubb had sent a message to Trump on the same day. Both the leaders had opposed America's decision to increase the proposed tariffs on European countries and appealed to reduce tension. This message came from Trump in response to this.

What did Trump claim about Greenland?

Trump said in his message that Denmark cannot protect Greenland from Russia and China. He also raised the question of how strong Denmark's historical claim is on this area. According to Trump, if the US does not have “complete control” of Greenland, the world will not be safe.

Why did Norway support Denmark?

Storey clarified that Greenland is part of Denmark's monarchical territory and that Norway stands with Denmark on the issue. He also said that it is NATO's responsibility to maintain security in the Arctic region and the alliance is working in this direction.

What is America's stance on tariffs?

Trump has already announced that from February, a 10 percent duty will be imposed on goods coming from Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, Britain, the Netherlands, and Finland. He has warned that if there is no agreement regarding Greenland, this rate may increase by 25 percent from June.