British Prime Minister Keir Starmer speaks to the media in the briefing room of 9 Downing Street in central London, Britain, after U.S. president Donald Trump's threats to ramp up tariffs until a deal is reached for the US to buy Greenland. Picture date: Monday January 19, 2026.    Jordan Pettitt/Pool via REUTERS
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News1819-01-2026, 16:27

UK PM Starmer Slams Trump's Greenland Tariff Threat, Warns Against Trade War

  • UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer criticized US President Donald Trump's threat to impose 10% tariffs on European allies, including the UK, over Greenland.
  • Trump justified the tariffs as retaliation for European troop deployments to Greenland, claiming the Arctic island is vital for US missile defense and to counter Russian and Chinese influence.
  • Starmer called the move "completely wrong," emphasizing Greenland and Denmark's right to self-determination and warning that a trade war benefits no one.
  • Despite strong ties with Washington, Starmer stated Britain would not abandon principles and would work with NATO and European allies to ease tensions, ruling out retaliatory tariffs for now.
  • European Council President Antonio Costa indicated EU leaders are ready to defend against coercion, while Denmark and Greenland seek NATO support for Arctic engagement.

Why It Matters: UK PM Starmer condemns Trump's Greenland tariffs, advocating diplomacy over trade war despite strong US ties.

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