Tensions continue to rise as NATO leaders pushback against Trump’s tariff threat
Sir Keir Starmer and Donald Trump held a private phone conversation in which the Prime Minister told the U.S. President that “imposing tariffs on allies for acting in support of NATO’s collective security is unacceptable.”
Trump had announced on social media on Saturday (January 17) that the United States would introduce a 10 per cent tariff on all goods arriving from the UK starting February 1, increasing to 25 per cent from June 1 unless an agreement is reached for the U.S. to purchase Greenland.
Both Greenland and the Kingdom of Denmark, which oversees the autonomous territory, have repeatedly rejected Trump’s proposal, and large demonstrations have taken place in major cities across both Greenland and Denmark opposing the U.S. approach.
Trump also confirmed that the same tariff measures would be applied to Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the Netherlands and Finland. Downing Street said Sir Keir held several calls on Sunday afternoon (January 17) after EU nations issued a joint statement condemning the President’s strategy.
“Tariff threats undermine transatlantic relations and risk a dangerous downward spiral”, the statement read.
It is understood that the Prime Minister also spoke to Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen and Nato chief Mark Rutte.
“In all his calls, the Prime Minister reiterated his position on Greenland. He said that security in the High North is a priority for all Nato allies in order to protect Euro-Atlantic interests,” A Downing Street spokesperson confirmed.
“He also said that applying tariffs on allies for pursuing the collective security of Nato allies is wrong.”
First Minister Michelle O’Neill posted on social media on Sunday to join fellow UK and European leaders in condemning Trump’s plans.
“The plan to apply tariffs and economic pressure on European countries in order to take control of Greenland is deeply concerning,” she claimed, adding, “The economies of Ireland and the United States are closely linked, and for many years that relationship has positively supported jobs, investment, and prosperity on both sides.
“However, when world leaders make dangerous decisions in the pursuit of land and resources, it is often ordinary people who pay the price. In the time ahead, I will work with political and business leaders at home and internationally to protect our local businesses, our all-island economy, and people’s livelihoods.”
