Voters in Iceland went to the polls Saturday to decide whether the country should resume long-stalled negotiations to join the European Union. This took place against the backdrop of U.S. President Donald Trump's threats to control nearby Greenland. The yes-or-no referendum question was simple enough for the roughly 265,000 eligible voters: Should Iceland resume accession negotiations with the European Union? This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Associated Press.
According to the referendum results, voters rejected the proposal to restart EU membership talks. This decision reflects Iceland's long-standing position on EU membership.
Before the vote, leaders of the No campaign reacted as early results from rural Iceland put the No side ahead during an election-night gathering in Reykjavik. At this gathering, former Icelandic Prime Minister and Centre Party leader Sigmundur Davíð Gunnlaugsson, Independence Party leader Guðrún Hafsteinsdóttir, and Progressive Party leader Lilja Dögg Alfreðsdóttir spoke.
However, after Reykjavik results were announced, supporters of the Yes campaign celebrated as their side took a narrow nationwide lead. But the final result showed a victory for the No side.
This referendum was another significant milestone in Iceland's question of EU membership. The country had previously suspended EU accession talks. Now this decision may affect the country's future direction.
US President Donald Trump's threats regarding Greenland were one of the factors influencing the holding of this referendum. Greenland is an autonomous territory of Denmark, and Trump's statements about controlling it have increased geopolitical tensions in the region.
The issue of Iceland's EU membership is actively discussed both domestically and internationally. The referendum result has defined the country's stance on EU membership, but this issue may remain on the agenda.