Donald Trump’s nominee for ambassador to Iceland, Billy Long, reportedly joked about Iceland becoming the 52nd US state, sparking outrage. The Icelandic foreign ministry contacted the US embassy for clarification following the remarks, and a petition demanding Long’s rejection as ambassador quickly gained thousands of signatures. Long later apologized, claiming the comments were made in jest, but Icelandic officials expressed concern, recognizing the seriousness of such remarks, especially given existing tensions regarding Greenland. Some Icelandic representatives viewed the comments as a sign of growing disrespect from the US towards small states.
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Former Icelandic President Olafur Ragnar Grimsson warned that any U.S. attempt to forcibly seize Greenland would have severe repercussions for global order and the Western alliance. Despite these warnings, recent talks between the U.S., Greenland, and Denmark ended with disagreements over the island’s ownership. Trump’s rhetoric framing Greenland as crucial to U.S. national security has intensified, but Grimsson suggests the U.S. should prioritize strengthening its domestic presence in the Arctic. He also downplayed concerns about Chinese and Russian influence in the region, focusing instead on domestic strategy.
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On Christmas Eve, Iceland experienced record-breaking temperatures, with Seyðisfjörður reaching 19.8C, far exceeding the average December temperatures of -1C to 4C. This unprecedented warmth, also seen in other areas, was caused by a high-pressure system bringing warm, tropical air to the region. This extreme heat is part of a larger trend, as Iceland is warming due to global heating, leading to occurrences like mosquito sightings for the first time and changes in marine life. Studies show that the Arctic region is warming at four times the rate of the rest of the planet, which is impacting the environment in Iceland.
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In response to the growing global issue of overtourism, several countries, including Iceland, Thailand, the Philippines, Indonesia, Japan, and Bhutan, are implementing strict measures to manage visitor numbers and protect their natural and cultural heritage. These measures include tourist levies, park fees, visitor quotas, digital booking systems, and other eco-conscious initiatives. The goal is to ensure tourism remains sustainable, minimizing environmental impact while fostering long-term economic benefits and preserving these destinations for future generations. These actions reflect a growing global shift towards prioritizing environmental protection and responsible travel practices.
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Iceland deems possible Atlantic current collapse a security risk, and it’s a concern that resonates far beyond its shores. It’s a sobering thought, but it’s time we acknowledge the potential fallout from a significant disruption of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC). This isn’t just about a slightly colder winter; we’re talking about a fundamental shift in global weather patterns, and the potential consequences are nothing short of a serious security risk.
The irony isn’t lost on anyone: some might see an AMOC collapse as a solution to global warming, if only because it could bring about a temporary cooling. The reality, however, is far more complex and dangerous.… Continue reading
Iceland has confirmed the presence of mosquitoes for the first time in its history. The Natural Science Institute of Iceland identified three Culiseta annulata mosquitoes, likely transported by freight. This discovery is attributed to a warming climate and increased international travel, which have also led to the appearance of other new insect species. Although these mosquitoes bite, they are not known to carry infections in the areas where they are commonly found.
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The Icelandic Institute of Natural History has confirmed the first discovery of mosquitoes in Iceland, with three specimens found in West Iceland. The insects were identified as the species *Culiseta annulata* by entomologist Matthías Alfreðsson after being collected by Björn Hjaltason, who initially spotted the first mosquito in a trap. This find is significant because this cold-resistant species can likely survive Icelandic winters, marking the first time mosquitoes have been discovered outdoors in Iceland. Scientists have anticipated their arrival for some time.
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On April 21st, Ukraine’s Defense Ministry announced the arrival of a €2 million ($2.3 million) IT equipment shipment from the IT Coalition, funded by Luxembourg and Iceland. This delivery, the third from the coalition in 2025, included crucial communication and charging infrastructure such as access points, routers, solar-powered charging stations, and phones. Deputy Defense Minister Chernohorenko emphasized the equipment’s importance in bolstering the Armed Forces’ communication capabilities in combat zones. The IT Coalition, a part of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group, continues to provide vital technological support to Ukraine’s military.
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Ásthildur Lóa Thórsdóttir, Iceland’s Minister for Children, resigned following revelations of a relationship she began with a 15-year-old boy 36 years prior, resulting in a child when the boy was 16. Thórsdóttir, then a 22-year-old counselor, acknowledged the relationship and expressed regret for her actions. Prime Minister Kristrún Frostadóttir deemed the matter serious, though stating limited prior knowledge. The resignation followed an immediate meeting between the Prime Minister and the Minister following confirmation of the news.
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A rare polar bear showed up on the shores of Iceland and the police shot it. It’s a sad and unfortunate event, but it was likely the most sensible move in this instance. Polar bears are not native to Iceland and can be extremely dangerous to humans and other wildlife. They are apex predators and will actively hunt down and attack humans if given the chance. In a situation where an elderly woman living alone calls the police out of fear, there may not have been many other options.
Polar bears are highly cannibalistic and will eat anything they can find, including other polar bears.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood