During the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, US President Donald Trump appeared to confuse Greenland with Iceland multiple times while giving a speech.
Trump, who has previously shown interest in Greenland, repeatedly referred to the territory as “Iceland” during his remarks, which caused a stir on social media and in international media coverage.
What Happened During the Speech?
Trump spoke about NATO and Greenland several times. In his remarks, he mentioned:
No he didn’t, Libby. His written remarks referred to Greenland as a “piece of ice” because that’s what it is.
You’re the only one mixing anything up here. https://t.co/awRQO3eN3Y pic.twitter.com/pkAQysW06h
— Karoline Leavitt (@PressSec) January 21, 2026
- Helping NATO and referring to Greenland as “Iceland.”
- Describing Greenland as “a piece of ice, cold and poorly located,” saying it plays a vital role in world peace.
- Discussing a US stock market dip related to Greenland, but calling it “Iceland.”
Observers noted that Trump mentioned Iceland four times in place of Greenland, which led to confusion.
Karoline Leavitt Defends Trump
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt defended President Trump after the mix-up.
- She tweeted that Trump never mixed up the countries, saying Greenland is “a piece of ice,” and only critics were confusing the two.
- Leavitt emphasized that Trump’s remarks focused on America’s strategic interests in Greenland.
However, her defense was community-noted on X (formerly Twitter), indicating that fact-checkers highlighted Trump indeed said “Iceland” when referring to Greenland.
Official White House Response
White House spokesperson Taylor Rogers added that:
- Trump delivered a historic speech on national security regarding Greenland.
- Hours after the speech, Trump announced a framework for a future deal involving Greenland.
- The White House stressed that Trump continues to deliver results despite media criticism.
The Difference Between Greenland and Iceland
For clarity:
- Greenland is roughly 20 times larger than Iceland.
- Both are NATO members and neighbors in the North Atlantic, but Greenland is strategically more significant due to its size and location.
- Iceland is an independent country with smaller landmass and population.
Trump’s repeated mentions of “Iceland” instead of Greenland drew attention because of the size and strategic importance difference.
Conclusion
Trump’s remarks at Davos caused a global stir because of the Greenland-Iceland mix-up. While he focused on America’s national security and strategic interests, the repeated misnaming led to fact-checking and social media commentary.
Karoline Leavitt defended the President, but media fact-checkers clarified the error in the speech. Despite this, Trump continues to push US strategic interests in the Arctic region.
FAQs About Trump, Greenland, and Iceland
Did Trump really confuse Greenland and Iceland?
Yes, during his Davos speech, Trump repeatedly called Greenland “Iceland,” which was noted by reporters and social media.
Why is Greenland important for the US?
Greenland has strategic value for military and security purposes due to its location in the Arctic and large landmass.
How did the White House respond to the confusion?
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt defended Trump, but fact-checkers clarified he said “Iceland” when referring to Greenland.
Are Greenland and Iceland the same?
No. Greenland is much larger and strategically important, while Iceland is smaller with its own independent government.
Did Trump announce any plans for Greenland?
Yes, after his speech, Trump announced a framework for a future deal involving Greenland, focusing on US interests in the region.