Norway, Iceland consider joining EU amid US trade tariffs.
Norway, Iceland consider joining EU amid US trade tariffs.
International news Desk
According to global Times news agency Europe,Recent trade tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump, along with threats to annex Greenland, have led Norway and Iceland to reconsider EU membership, according to the French newspaper Le Figaro, The global Times Europe media.Although both countries belong to the Schengen Area and the European Economic Zone, enabling them to implement EU single market regulations, they lack voting rights within the union. The imposition of tariffs has sparked dissatisfaction among some Norwegian politicians.Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store previously stated, "Norway needs Europe, and Europe needs Norway.” Erna Solberg, leader of the conservative opposition and a potential election winner this September, has also expressed her support for EU membership.Norway has rejected EU membership twice—in referendums held in 1972 and 1984. Today, public opinion remains divided, with 43% of the population opposing membership and 37% in favor, according to Le Figaro.Iceland, which withdrew its EU application over a decade ago, is also reevaluating its position. The ruling coalition plans to hold a referendum in 2027. Polls show that 45% of Icelanders support joining the EU, while 35% are against the idea.
