UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer says a trade war over Greenland is in no one’s interest, criticising US tariffs as wrong and urging a partnership-based solution
LONDON: UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said a “trade war is in no one’s interest” after US President Donald Trump vowed to hit Britain and European countries with tariffs over their support for Greenland.
Starmer told a press conference that “the use of tariffs against allies is completely wrong”. He was speaking after Trump threatened to slap tariffs on Britain, Denmark, and other European countries unless the Arctic island is ceded to him.
“Alliances endure because they’re built on respect and partnership, not pressure,” Starmer said. He added that he urged Trump in a call on Sunday to find a solution “rooted in partnership, facts and mutual respect”.
The prime minister said the UK would keep dialogue open and defend international law. He vowed to use the full strength of government to protect the security, living standards and future of the British people.
Starmer acknowledged it was a “serious” situation but said it would not push him to “choose between the US and Europe”. He is walking an increasingly shaky tightrope between Britain’s two closest allies.
Germany’s vice-chancellor said Europe was preparing countermeasures to Trump’s “blackmail”. Starmer said there was “proper unity and coordination” in the response from the UK and EU.
However, the UK was not “at the stage” of thinking about imposing retaliatory tariffs, he added.
