London (UK): British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Monday urged calm and constructive dialogue among allies amid rising tensions over Greenland, warning that a trade war would serve no one’s interests after US President Donald Trump threatened tariffs to pressure Denmark over the Arctic territory.
Addressing an emergency press conference, Starmer emphasised that the long-standing alliance between the United Kingdom and the United States has ensured security and prosperity for decades. He said Britain remains committed to preserving those ties while working to defuse the growing diplomatic strain that has sparked concerns about the future of NATO unity.
However, Starmer strongly criticised the use of trade measures against allies, stating that threats of escalating tariffs on Britain and European nations were inappropriate. He stressed that Greenland’s future must be determined solely by its people and Denmark, without external coercion.
“Tariffs should not be used against allies in this way,” Starmer said, adding that while Britain would act pragmatically, it was not seeking to escalate the situation. “A tariff war is in nobody’s interests, and my focus is on ensuring we do not reach that stage.”
Trump recently threatened tariffs on eight countries that had deployed small contingents of military personnel to Greenland, following repeated statements expressing his desire to acquire the strategically significant island. The remarks have heightened diplomatic tensions across the transatlantic alliance.
Starmer revealed that he spoke with Trump on Sunday and clarified that the allied military presence in Greenland was aimed at assessing security risks, particularly in relation to Russia. He said he hoped the conversation had brought greater clarity to the situation.
Britain’s restrained stance contrasts with the European Union’s response, as EU officials have reportedly discussed retaliatory measures, including potential tariffs on up to €93 billion worth of US imports.
Warning of broader consequences, Starmer said the tariff threats risk triggering a “downward spiral” that could damage trade relations and weaken historic alliances. While reaffirming Britain’s commitment to its principles and values, he said diplomacy remained the best path forward.
When asked whether he believed the United States was seriously contemplating military action over Greenland, Starmer dismissed the possibility, expressing confidence that the issue could be resolved through dialogue rather than confrontation.
