The UK and its allies are working urgently to dissuade Donald Trump from considering military action to acquire Greenland, as the US President has not ruled out using force. Keir Starmer is under pressure to shield Britain from potential US tariffs after Trump indicated full commitment to imposing economic sanctions if no agreement is reached over Greenland. Trump’s heightened interest in securing Greenland, which he views as strategically important against Russia and China in the Arctic region, has raised tensions. He recently alarmed European nations by threatening tariffs on goods from eight NATO allies, including the UK, until a deal is struck to purchase Greenland.
During a press conference at Downing Street, Starmer strongly cautioned Trump against initiating a trade war, emphasizing that imposing tariffs on allies is unjust and harmful to British interests. He urged for calm discussions rather than resorting to economic pressure. Starmer downplayed the likelihood of military intervention to claim Greenland, stating that any decision concerning Greenland’s status should be left to the people of Greenland and Denmark. Trump’s response to questions about seizing Greenland by force was evasive, and he reiterated his intention to enforce tariffs as promised.
Trump criticized European leaders for their focus on issues like Russia and Ukraine, suggesting they should prioritize those matters over Greenland. In a message to Norway’s Prime Minister, Trump expressed disappointment over not receiving a Nobel Peace Prize and emphasized the need for US control over Greenland. Norway reaffirmed its support for Denmark regarding Greenland and clarified the Nobel Peace Prize selection process to Trump.
Yvette Cooper, the Foreign Secretary, met with Danish officials as tensions escalated, emphasizing the importance of respecting alliances and resolving disputes amicably. Cooper highlighted the significance of Arctic security and stressed the need for transatlantic cooperation in the region. A YouGov poll indicated strong public support in the UK for retaliatory tariffs against the US in response to the Greenland dispute.