REYKJAVIK, Iceland: Icelanders voted August 29 on whether to restart negotiations to join the European Union, with concerns over U.S. President Donald Trump's threats to control nearby Greenland adding a new dimension to a long-running debate over the country's relationship with Europe.

About 265,000 eligible voters were being asked whether Iceland should resume accession negotiations with the EU. More than 20 percent had cast early ballots before election day, according to national broadcaster RÚV, and experts expected a close result.

A yes vote would trigger negotiations with the European Commission covering 35 areas, ranging from the economy to human rights. It would not mean automatic membership, and Icelanders would be required to vote again on any eventual agreement.

Some supporters believe EU membership could offer protection if Trump made similar threats against Iceland and say joining the bloc would provide greater economic stability.

"This has been a tight race, extremely exciting," Prime Minister Kristrún Frostadóttir said after voting. "It's lifted discussions about the EU, about Iceland's place in the world, about our general geopolitical situation and status to a higher level."

Trump's comments about U.S. control of Greenland, a self-governing territory of Denmark about 180 miles from Iceland, shifted the mood in Iceland, particularly early this year. Some Icelanders were also alarmed when Trump mistakenly referred to Iceland four times while discussing Greenland.

Trump has indicated he will not use force to seize Greenland, though his interest in the territory has continued.

Iceland's left-leaning coalition government, elected in 2024, moved forward the referendum originally planned for next year.

Iceland formally ended its previous attempt to join the EU in 2015, largely because of concerns about the impact membership could have on its fishing resources.

Fishing remains central to Iceland's economy and national identity. Joining the 27-member EU would require participation in its common fisheries policy, allowing fishing vessels from other member states into Icelandic waters. The government has indicated it would seek a special arrangement, potentially a full exemption from the policy.

Supporters say closer ties with Europe would help Iceland tackle cross-border issues such as climate change. They also argue adopting the euro would provide greater stability than Iceland's volatile króna and that EU membership would lower inflation and interest rates.

"Being in good connection and good relations with Europe is absolutely the best thing that Iceland has ever done and should continue," Haukur Hallsson said after voting in favor of restarting talks. "Iceland should definitely look more to Europe than the White House at this moment."

Opponents argue Iceland already benefits from access to the EU's single market and the Schengen free-travel zone without surrendering additional sovereignty. They also favor retaining control over fisheries, agriculture and the country's ability to negotiate some of its own trade agreements.

"What's happening in the EU is not to my liking," said Agust Hallvardsson, who voted against the proposal. "It's like a big burning ship. I think they need to, you know, put their things right before we join them. And I think we're better off alone."