Greenland tariffs threat has raised tensions between the United States and its NATO allies this week. Because of this, talks are urgent.
UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer told President Donald Trump that putting tariffs on allies over Greenland is wrong. He also said diplomacy is better than threats.
Trump said he would charge the UK 10% on all goods from February 1, rising to 25% from June 1. So, tariffs will stay until Greenland’s sale is agreed.
He added that Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the Netherlands, and Finland would get the same tariffs. Because of this, European leaders reacted quickly.
Meanwhile, Starmer made several calls on Sunday, including one with Trump, to explain the UK’s position. He also urged the US to rethink its plan.
A Downing Street spokesperson said the Prime Minister put Arctic security first for all NATO allies. In addition, keeping the High North safe is a shared duty.
Starmer also said that putting tariffs on allies for protecting security is wrong. He stressed that trust within NATO is very important.
Trump criticised a Danish-led military exercise in Greenland, claiming countries went there “for unknown reasons.” But the UK only sent one officer, and the exercise was planned.
All countries involved said the exercise helped NATO security. In fact, it posed no danger and showed allies were ready.
Thousands of Greenlanders protested, saying their homeland is “not for sale” after Trump’s tariff news. Because of this, the protests drew a large crowd in Nuuk.
People waved flags and held signs, with almost a quarter of the population taking part. In addition, the protests showed strong local support for sovereignty.
Marie Pedersen, 47, brought her children to show them they can speak up for their country. She also wanted to teach them civic responsibility.
Her nine-year-old daughter, Alaska, carried a “Greenland is not for sale” sign. Moreover, school lessons about NATO inspired their participation.
Trump has said Greenland is important for its minerals and for US safety. So, he sees the territory as vital for national security.
He said European nations got many US benefits and must “give back” for world peace. Because of this, the move caused strong criticism.
Despite the threat of tariffs, Greenlanders stayed firm, choosing autonomy and NATO commitments over money. As a result, leaders said their country comes first.
Former Greenlandic MP Tillie Martinussen said this fight is for freedom and Western security. She also said Greenland’s stand protects all allies.
European leaders also criticised Trump’s tariff threat. Ursula von der Leyen and Antonio Costa said the move could hurt NATO relations.
They added that keeping countries’ borders and independence is a core principle of international law. So respecting these rules keeps the world safer.
UK Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy called the government’s stance “non-negotiable.” Likewise, several MPs said Trump’s plan harms trust in alliances.
Extra European troops went to Greenland after US warnings about Arctic security. Moreover, allies wanted to show they are prepared.
As tensions grow, NATO members stress diplomacy, independence, and teamwork. They also said economic pressure must not replace safety.
Greenland tariffs threat shows the delicate balance between trade pressure and international safety. Because of this, leaders must work carefully to calm the situation.
For more updates on this news, stay tuned to London Pulse News.
