Sent text to Norwegian prime minister linking Greenland ambitions to Nobel Peace Prize snub
January 18, 2026
Verbal Deviation
Founders' Principles Violated
Guardrails Violated
Trigger
President Trump sent a text message to Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre on January 18, 2026, linking his desire for complete control over Greenland to the fact that he did not receive the Nobel Peace Prize, saying he no longer feels 'an obligation to think purely of peace.'
Action Taken
Sent text message to Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre on January 18, 2026, linking his desire for complete control over Greenland to the fact that he did not receive the Nobel Peace Prize. Trump said he no longer feels 'an obligation to think purely of peace' because of the snub. The message was made public and created diplomatic tensions. Critics argued the message was inappropriate and linked territorial ambitions to personal grievances. The message raised concerns about diplomatic professionalism.
In His Own Words
"I no longer feel an obligation to think purely of peace."
"I should have gotten the Nobel Peace Prize."
"Greenland is more important than peace."
What's Wrong
Text message to foreign leader linking territorial ambitions to personal grievances violates diplomatic protocols. The message was made public and created diplomatic tensions. Critics argued the message was inappropriate and unprofessional. The message raised concerns about diplomatic professionalism and international relationships.
Impact
Diplomatic: Message linking territorial ambitions to personal grievances created tensions with Norway and raised concerns about diplomatic professionalism. International: Message made public and criticized by international leaders. Operational: No concrete action taken, but message undermined diplomatic relationships.
Sources & Full Details
Primary Sources
Background
President Trump sent a text message to Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre on January 18, 2026, linking his desire for complete control over Greenland to the fact that he did not receive the Nobel Peace Prize. Trump said he no longer feels 'an obligation to think purely of peace.' The message was made public and created diplomatic tensions.
Why Level 1?
Verbal deviation: Text message to foreign leader linking territorial ambitions to personal grievances violates diplomatic protocols. No concrete action taken, but message creates diplomatic tensions and undermines professionalism.