US President Donald Trump appeared to repeatedly refer to Greenland as “Iceland” during a speech to world leaders at the World Economic Forum in Davos, prompting criticism and a swift denial from the White House.
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Speaking on Wednesday at the annual gathering in Switzerland, Trump discussed his long-stated interest in the United States acquiring Greenland, a semi-autonomous territory of Denmark that he has described as strategically vital due to rising security concerns involving Russia and China in the Arctic region. However, during his remarks, he mentioned “Iceland” several times while outlining the economic and geopolitical implications of his proposal.
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
“I’m helping Nato, and until the last few days, when I told them about Iceland, they loved me,” Trump said. He went on to claim that opposition related to “Iceland” had affected markets, remarks that appeared to clearly reference Greenland rather than the neighbouring Nordic island nation.
Following the speech, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt rejected suggestions that the president had confused the two locations. Responding to a journalist on social media, she said Trump’s written remarks referred to Greenland as a “piece of ice” and accused critics of misinterpreting his words.
Trump also used the Davos platform to announce what he described as a “framework” for a future deal on Greenland and the cancellation of proposed tariffs on certain European countries that had opposed his ambitions. His comments, however, further strained relations with Nato allies and raised eyebrows among international observers.
The president is known for frequently deviating from prepared remarks, and his unscripted comments at Davos quickly drew reactions back home. California Governor Gavin Newsom, a prominent Democratic figure, criticised the episode, saying it reflected a broader departure from political norms.
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Questions surrounding Trump’s mental acuity have resurfaced in recent days, with some Democratic lawmakers calling for discussions around the US Constitution’s 25th Amendment, which allows for the removal of a president deemed unfit to serve. The White House has dismissed such claims.
Trump’s renewed push to acquire Greenland remains controversial, particularly among European allies, and continues to generate debate over US foreign policy priorities.