Iceland is set to advance plans to hold a referendum regarding the resumption of EU membership negotiations, as confirmed by Prime Minister Kristrún Frostadóttir during a press conference in Poland. Although no specific date has been established yet, speculation indicates that the referendum might occur as early as August, as reported by Politico based on anonymous sources. This move comes amidst a global backdrop of heightened trade tensions and geopolitical interests, particularly from the United States concerning Greenland.

The political climate in Iceland appears to be shifting, as recent polls from January 2025 suggest a majority of Icelanders might be in favor of EU membership. The current Icelandic government aims to hold the referendum by 2027, revisiting a topic that had previously gained traction in 2009 when Iceland first applied for EU membership. Following the initiation of talks in 2010, the process was subsequently stalled in 2013 due to a change in government, which adopted a more skeptical stance towards the EU.

This potential referendum is pivotal for Iceland's future, particularly in light of recent developments in international trade and diplomacy. The pressure from the U.S. regarding tariffs and its interest in Greenland could be spurring Iceland to reconsider its EU aspirations, aiming to align itself closer to the European bloc amidst global economic uncertainties. As the situation evolves, the Icelandic government will need to address both domestic opinions and potential external influences as they prepare for the upcoming referendum.