Iceland may fast-track vote on joining EU: report
Deutsche Welle
February 23, 2026
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Iceland’s government is reportedly considering holding a referendum on rejoining the European Union as early as this summer, a significant shift from its initial plan to wait until 2027. This potential move comes amid rising geopolitical tensions, particularly following U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariffs on Icelandic products and his expressed interest in acquiring Greenland. These developments have sparked concerns about Iceland’s security and economic stability, prompting the government to accelerate its timeline for a decision.
Historically, Iceland applied for EU membership in 2009 after the 2008 financial crisis but suspended negotiations in 2013 under a center-right government. However, recent global events—such as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and ongoing U.S.-EU trade disputes—have renewed interest in closer ties with the EU. Icelandic Foreign Minister Thorgerdur Katrin Gunnarsdottir has emphasized the need to adapt to the “completely different geopolitical environment,” hinting at a desire to expedite the process.
The Social Democratic Alliance, which won the 2024 election, had pledged to hold a referendum by 2027. However, with EU officials already engaging in discussions, it appears Iceland’s membership talks could resume sooner than expected. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and other EU representatives have met with Icelandic leaders, signaling a renewed interest in Iceland’s potential accession.
While Iceland is already part of the European Economic Area and the Schengen zone, challenges like fishing quotas and whaling regulations may pose hurdles during negotiations. However, the growing sense of insecurity in Iceland, coupled with its
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Originally published on Deutsche Welle on 2/23/2026