UK Prime Minister Starmer Rejects Retaliatory Tariffs Over US Greenland Threat
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Monday criticized the US plan to impose tariffs on the UK and other European countries, saying it “is not the right way to resolve differences within an alliance” and that using Greenland security as a pretext for economic pressure is unhelpful.
Starmer addressed an urgent press conference at 10 Downing Street following US President Donald Trump’s announcement of 10% tariffs on the UK, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the Netherlands, and Finland by February 1, rising to 25% by June 1, in response to opposition to US control of Greenland and the deployment of American troops there. European countries have denounced the threat and reaffirmed their commitment to Arctic security.
Ruling out retaliatory tariffs, Starmer said a trade war “is in nobody’s interest” and stressed that the UK’s national interest lies in maintaining strong alliances. He highlighted Greenland’s strategic importance amid climate change and Arctic competition, while emphasizing that decisions about Greenland’s future “belong to the people of Greenland and the Kingdom of Denmark alone.”
Starmer underscored the importance of a strong UK-US relationship for defense, intelligence, and nuclear deterrence, noting that Britain’s security depends on constructive dialogue with Washington. He described the situation as resolvable through calm discussion and reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to NATO and collective defense.
“Strong, respectful alliances require the maturity to say where we disagree,” Starmer said, adding that he has spoken with President Trump and will continue to do so. He concluded that maintaining a good relationship with the US is essential for the effectiveness of Britain’s nuclear deterrent and overall national security.
