Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has issued a stark condemnation of former US President Donald Trump's threats to impose punitive tariffs on the United Kingdom and potentially take military action to acquire Greenland.
Trump's Tariff Ultimatum Over Greenland
Sir Keir urged the nation to unite in response to what he labelled a "completely wrong" strategy from the US. The crisis stems from Trump's desire to purchase Greenland, a semi-autonomous territory of the Kingdom of Denmark, for its strategic Arctic location and vast mineral wealth.
In a significant escalation, Trump has threatened to levy a 10% tariff on all UK goods exported to the United States from 1 February 2026. This tariff is set to rise sharply to 25% from 1 June 2026 if a deal to purchase Greenland from Denmark is not finalised. The Prime Minister has called for "calm discussion between allies" to resolve the dispute, firmly rejecting the use of military action or a trade war as tools of diplomacy.
A Plea for Calm and Diplomatic Resolution
Speaking on Monday 19 January 2026, Starmer emphasised the need for measured dialogue. He argued that using tariffs against close allies was an inappropriate and damaging approach to international relations. The Prime Minister's intervention highlights the severe potential economic consequences for British businesses and consumers should the tariffs come into effect.
Critically, Donald Trump has not ruled out military action to acquire the Arctic territory, a stance that has sent shockwaves through diplomatic circles in London, Copenhagen, and beyond. This threat transforms a contentious trade proposition into a potential security crisis.
Greenland's Response and Broader Implications
The situation has provoked anger in Greenland itself, where protesters have condemned the "circus" of Trump's tariff threats and the territory's treatment as a bargaining chip. As a self-governing part of Denmark, Greenland's future is not Denmark's alone to sell, adding a complex layer of sovereignty to the dispute.
The row places the UK in a difficult position, caught between its historic "special relationship" with the US and its obligations as a European ally respecting the territorial integrity of Denmark. Starmer's firm rebuttal signals a willingness to defend UK economic interests and international norms, even at the risk of a transatlantic rift. The coming weeks will test whether calm discussion can prevail over threats of economic and military coercion.
