NATO's Arctic Outpost: Iceland Revises Its Defense Policy.

Iceland is considering strengthening its defense capabilities and resuming negotiations for EU membership. According to The Wall Street Journal, this decision is linked to the actions of the Trump administration and the tension between the US and Europe.

Iceland has been an important NATO base during the Cold War. Climate change is creating new risks for the country due to increased activity in the north. Iceland makes a significant contribution to NATO's defense efforts, although it does not have permanent armed forces.

There has never been public support for the military in Iceland, and I don’t think there will be in the foreseeable future. This does not mean that we cannot have active defense and active alliances, and defense is important, - said Prime Minister Katrín Jakobsdóttir.

Currently, there are public debates in Iceland regarding the need for more active protection of the country and resuming negotiations with the EU. For example, Prime Minister Katrín Jakobsdóttir plans to hold a referendum on EU membership, but only after addressing more urgent issues. Some Icelanders believe that Trump's policies are prompting them to join the European Union more quickly.

The increase in Iceland's prosperity, underpinned by energy resources and volcanic activity, has also sparked debates. The country attracts tourists and serves as a base for various industries.

The US considers Iceland and Greenland critically important for domestic security, especially due to the presence of Russian submarines. The underwater terrain in this area makes it easier to detect submarines.