Norwegian Prime Minister Reflects on Exchange with Trump

Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre has publicly addressed his recent tense interaction with President Donald Trump for the first time. The discussion started when a text from Støre last month suggested that they should have a conversation to address Trump’s ongoing threats to take control of Greenland.

Støre urged Trump to “de-escalate” the situation, emphasizing the necessity for unity amid various global challenges. However, the president dismissed his suggestion, responding later with a provocative message stating, “Dear Jonas: Considering your country decided not to give me the Nobel Peace Prize for having stopped eight wars, I no longer feel obligated to prioritize peace, but can now focus on what’s beneficial for the United States.”

Trump reiterated his threats regarding Greenland, demanding “complete and total control” of the territory. In response to the exchange during the Munich Security Conference, Støre expressed his concern, stating, “I thought it lowered the debate to a level where we don’t resolve issues.” He indicated that he did not wish to engage in a contentious discussion.

Støre conveyed a more diplomatic reply to Trump, paraphrasing his message as, “I take your concerns; I still find it beneficial to talk.” The Daily Beast reached out to the White House for comments, and a representative acknowledged that “President Trump deserves the Nobel Peace Prize many times over.”

Støre was not taken aback by Trump’s message, noting his awareness of the former president’s obsession with the Nobel Peace Prize, awarded by the independent Norwegian Nobel Committee. Trump’s anxieties about not receiving the award have led to public complaints and even instances where he cold-called Norwegian diplomats to advocate for himself.

Interestingly, the prize’s actual recipient, Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado, later opted to present her Nobel Peace Prize to Trump, saying it was a “very emotional moment” on behalf of the Venezuelan people. She felt Trump deserved it, despite the Nobel Institute’s insistence that the prize is not transferable.

Despite Trump’s ongoing frustrations, Støre noted that he explained the independent nature of the Nobel Committee, suggesting that any attempt at interference would warrant his resignation. Støre remarked on Trump’s reluctance to accept this, humorously adding that the president “doesn’t listen on that frequency.” Nevertheless, he ended on a positive note, recognizing Trump’s responsiveness compared to his predecessor, Joe Biden, and emphasizing the importance of maintaining diplomatic relations.