Keir Starmer engaged in discussions with Donald Trump today amidst concerns raised by European leaders regarding the potential annexation of Greenland. Acting as a mediator, the Prime Minister aimed to persuade the US President to pursue diplomatic avenues rather than resorting to force to acquire the Danish-controlled territory.
Following an initial conversation with the President on Wednesday evening, PM Starmer held talks with Mette Frederiksen, the Danish Prime Minister. No10 disclosed that Mr. Starmer reaffirmed his stance on Greenland during the discussions, emphasizing the importance of Nato’s increased involvement in the region to counter Russian aggression.
Subsequently, he communicated along similar lines with Mark Rutte, the Secretary General of Nato, before engaging with Trump once more in the afternoon.
A spokesperson from Downing Street stated, “The leaders deliberated on Euro-Atlantic security and concurred on the necessity to deter an increasingly assertive Russia in the High North. While European Allies have bolstered their efforts in safeguarding Euro-Atlantic interests, the Prime Minister highlighted the potential for further actions to safeguard the region.”
Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy was scheduled to meet with US Vice President JD Vance, with discussions likely to encompass Greenland and Venezuela, among other topics.
The Deputy Prime Minister’s visit to the United States is in commemoration of the 250th Anniversary of America’s Declaration of Independence from Britain.
French President Emmanuel Macron recently cautioned that under the Trump administration, the US was straying from international norms and distancing itself from certain allies. Despite such observations, UK minister Pat McFadden affirmed that the US remains a steadfast partner, despite President Trump’s conduct.
Downing Street reiterated the Prime Minister’s stance that the future of Greenland should be determined solely by Greenland and Denmark, emphasizing this position during the call.