Starmer’s Strong Opposition
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed his disapproval to President Trump on Sunday, stating that imposing tariffs on European countries opposing his Greenland acquisition plan is “wrong.”
This warning came as European nations scrambled to formulate a response to Trump’s threats, with reports suggesting they might consider retaliatory tariffs.
A spokesperson for Starmer emphasized that “security in the High North is a priority for all NATO allies to safeguard Euro-Atlantic interests,” adding that it is inappropriate to apply tariffs on allies who are committed to collective security.
The exchange occurred during a meeting of European leaders in Brussels, where they discussed how to react to Trump’s escalating pressure regarding the Greenland purchase.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump announced plans for a 10% tariff on Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, Britain, the Netherlands, and Finland. These countries have recently deployed military personnel to Danish territory.
Trump stated that the tariff would remain until an agreement is reached for the complete purchase of Greenland and warned it could increase to 25% by June 1 if no deal is made.
He asserted that after centuries, it is time for Denmark to relinquish control over Greenland for global peace’s sake. He claimed that both China and Russia are interested in the territory.
European leaders have made it clear they oppose U.S. control over a territory governed by Denmark, which is part of both NATO and the European Union.
Starmer also engaged in discussions with Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte. Rutte confirmed he had spoken with Trump about security issues in Greenland and the Arctic.
Trump is scheduled to attend the World Economic Forum at a resort in Switzerland later this week.
