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UK PM Criticizes Trump's Tariffs on NATO Allies Over Greenland Purchase Push
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Tory leader Kemi Badenoch criticized US President Donald Trump's announcement of tariffs on NATO allies including the UK over opposition to US purchase of Greenland from Denmark.
Why It Matters
The tariff threat escalates tensions within NATO, challenges transatlantic alliance stability, and links trade policy to territorial disputes in the Arctic amid concerns over Russia and China.
Timeline
6 Events
UK leaders criticize Trump
17 January 2026
Tory leader Kemi Badenoch calls Trump 'completely wrong'; PM Sir Keir Starmer had prior calls on Arctic security with Trump, Danish PM, NATO chief; UK steps up Arctic discussions.
Rallies in Greenland and Denmark
17 January 2026
Hundreds rally in Nuuk for self-governance; thousands protest in Denmark against US takeover.
Trump announces tariffs on 8 NATO allies
17 January 2026
Trump posts on Truth Social imposing 10% tariffs from 1 February 2026 on Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, UK, Netherlands, Finland, rising to 25% on 1 June 2026, until Greenland purchase deal.
Denmark-Greenland-US talks in Washington
January 2026
Foreign ministers of Denmark and Greenland meet US VP JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio; agreement for working group formed amid differing views.
Trump vows to acquire Greenland
12 January 2026
Trump declares 'One way or the other, we are going to have Greenland' for acquisition, not lease; US congressman proposes annexation bill; Greenland PM rejects US control.
Trump escalates Greenland rhetoric
9 January 2026
Trump claims 'I don't need international law', threatens to seize Greenland or risk NATO, states full ownership is psychologically needed.