Keir Starmer criticized Donald Trump’s imposition of tariffs on countries opposing his attempt to acquire Greenland as “inappropriate” during a series of conversations today, including one with the US President.
The Prime Minister engaged in an urgent discussion with the US President following concerns raised by NATO members, including the UK, about the potential negative impact of Mr. Trump’s Greenland tariff threats on international relations.
A statement from Downing Street highlighted that the Prime Minister emphasized his stance on Greenland during calls with various leaders, underscoring the significance of security in the High North for all NATO allies in safeguarding Euro-Atlantic interests. He condemned the application of tariffs on allies striving for collective NATO security as unjust.
President Trump recently announced plans to impose 10% tariffs on several countries, including the UK, if they oppose his desired acquisition of Greenland. He also threatened to increase the levies on NATO allies to 25% by June 1 if a deal for purchasing Greenland is not reached promptly.
Keir Starmer and Cabinet ministers have condemned this action as “entirely inappropriate.” In a joint response, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, and the United Kingdom reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing Arctic security as a mutual transatlantic interest. They expressed solidarity with Denmark and Greenland’s people, emphasizing the importance of sovereignty and territorial integrity in ongoing discussions.
The EU ambassadors have been called for emergency discussions following these tariff threats, with leaders like French President Emmanuel Macron and Sweden’s Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson asserting their refusal to yield to intimidation tactics.
Lisa Nandy, the UK’s Culture Secretary, emphasized the non-negotiable position of the UK regarding Greenland, stating that while opposing the tariffs, the UK aims to maintain a constructive relationship with the US. The UK government remains steadfast in its belief that Greenland’s future should align with the wishes of its people and Denmark.
The ongoing situation regarding Greenland has underscored the importance of collaborative efforts rather than engaging in verbal disputes, as emphasized by President Trump’s differing stance on the matter.