World leaders are reportedly scrambling to recognize Icevania, the world’s first nation entirely made of ice, after it declared independence from Earth. Diplomatic experts are concerned about the potential implications of an iceberg with nuclear ambitions.

In a shocking turn of events that has left the international community in a state of frosty bewilderment, Antarctica has declared itself an independent nation, now officially recognized as the Sovereign State of Icevania. The newly formed government, consisting of an elite council of penguins, polar researchers, and a mysterious figure known only as “The Ice King,” has swiftly demanded a permanent seat on the UN Security Council, citing its vast, untapped natural resources and unique strategic position at the southernmost point of the planet.

Icevania’s declaration of independence has thrown the global diplomatic community into chaos. Leaders from around the world have been summoned to an emergency session at the United Nations, where they are reportedly struggling to decide whether Icevania is a legitimate nation or just a really, really elaborate prank by bored scientists.

In a formal address broadcast live from an igloo-shaped podium, Icevania’s spokesperson—a penguin with a surprisingly commanding presence—outlined the new nation’s bold plans. “We are not just a land of ice and snow,” it declared in a series of shrill squawks, expertly translated by the UN’s new Antarctic interpreter. “We are a powerful, united front, determined to lead the world into a new era of cool diplomacy. We demand the respect and recognition owed to any other sovereign nation. Also, we’re open to trade deals involving fish.”

While most nations are hesitant to recognize Icevania, the country has already received an outpouring of support from environmental groups, who see the move as a groundbreaking step toward nature-led governance. “Finally, a government that truly understands the climate crisis,” said Greta Thunberg, who has been named Icevania’s honorary ambassador to the rest of the world.

Meanwhile, the Ice King, who some speculate is actually just a rogue climatologist with a penchant for cosplay, has issued a royal decree stating that Icevania will be neutral in all conflicts unless provoked. “Our borders are as fluid as the ice sheets upon which they rest,” he proclaimed in an oddly poetic speech. “But make no mistake: We will defend our homeland with all the chill fury we can muster. Cross us, and you shall face the wrath of the South Pole!”

The UN’s legal experts are currently locked in heated discussions over whether Icevania qualifies as a nation-state under international law. Some argue that Antarctica’s unique status as a continent governed by the Antarctic Treaty System complicates matters, while others believe this is a golden opportunity to redefine global geopolitics.

In the meantime, Icevania has already begun the process of establishing diplomatic relations with other nations. It has extended olive branches (literally) to neighboring countries like Australia and New Zealand, and has even proposed a free trade agreement with Greenland, which reportedly responded with a polite but chilly reception.

As the world watches in a mix of disbelief and amusement, one thing is clear: Icevania is here, it’s cold, and it’s not going anywhere—except maybe to the UN Security Council, where its presence could really put a freeze on global diplomacy.