Sir Keir Starmer has branded US President Donald Trump’s threat to impose tariffs on Britain and other NATO allies as “completely wrong,” as tensions escalate over Greenland’s future.
The Prime Minister defended the sovereignty of the Danish territory after Mr Trump announced sweeping 10% tariffs on goods from the UK, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the Netherlands, and Finland, set to take effect on February 1, 2026. According to the President’s announcement, these tariffs will rise to 25% on June 1, 2026, and remain in place until a deal is reached for the complete US purchase of Greenland.
Sir Keir stated Britain’s position clearly: “Our position on Greenland is very clear – it is part of the Kingdom of Denmark and its future is a matter for the Greenlanders and the Danes.”
The Prime Minister criticised the rationale behind the tariffs, saying: “Applying tariffs on allies for pursuing the collective security of Nato allies is completely wrong.” He added that the Government “will of course be pursuing this directly with the US administration.”
Trump Cites Security Concerns
Writing on Truth Social, Mr Trump defended his position by claiming Greenland was protected only by “two dogsleds” and that US control was essential for national security and global peace. “World Peace is at stake! China and Russia want Greenland, and there is not a thing Denmark can do about it,” the President posted.
He accused the listed countries of journeying to Greenland “for purposes unknown,” creating what he described as an untenable risk. Mr Trump has pursued the takeover of Greenland since his inauguration in January 2025, reviving an idea from his first term.
Cross-Party Opposition
The tariff threat has united British political leaders in opposition. Kemi Badenoch, the Conservative leader, called the tariffs “a terrible idea” and described Mr Trump as “completely wrong,” noting they would result in higher costs for people in both the UK and US. She aligned with Sir Keir on Greenland’s sovereignty, agreeing it should be decided by its people.
Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, said on social media: “These tariffs will hurt us,” expressing disagreement with the US government’s approach.
Sir Ed Davey, the Liberal Democrat leader, claimed Sir Keir’s US policy was “in tatters,” with Mr Trump “punishing UK and Nato allies.” He urged the Prime Minister to stand firm against what he termed White House “bully” tactics.
Arctic Security Tensions
Sir Keir emphasised broader security implications, stating: “We have also made clear that Arctic Security matters for the whole of Nato and allies should all do more together to address the threat from Russia across different parts of the Arctic.”
Recent diplomatic efforts have failed to resolve the standoff. US, Danish, and Greenlandic officials met at the White House on January 14, 2026, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President JD Vance, but the talks resulted in what was described as a “fundamental disagreement” on Greenland sovereignty.
Denmark offered increased security access and defence investment but set firm boundaries on territorial integrity and Greenlandic self-determination. The country has stepped up its Arctic military presence in response, while the UK sent a military officer to Greenland. European officials have also visited the territory recently.
The US National Security Strategy emphasises an assertive Western Hemisphere policy for strategic interests. Meanwhile, Greenland residents have staged “Stop Trump” protests amid the escalating threats.
