Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has issued a firm public rebuke to former US President Donald Trump over his threats to impose sweeping tariffs on close allies, including the United Kingdom.
Trump's Tariff Ultimatum
The controversy began on Saturday, January 17, 2026, when Mr Trump used his Truth Social platform to announce a plan to levy tariffs on eight European nations. He stated that a 10 per cent tariff would be imposed on February 1 against Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the UK, the Netherlands, and Finland.
He declared these tariffs would escalate to a 25 per cent rate on June 1 if the United States is not permitted to complete "the complete and total purchase of Greenland." The vast, autonomous Danish territory has been an object of US interest for decades.
Starmer's Strong Condemnation
Addressing the media in an unexpected press conference on Monday, January 19, Sir Keir left no room for ambiguity regarding the UK's position. He labelled the tariff threats as "wrong" and warned that a trade war benefits no one.
"The right way to approach this issue must be through calm discussion between allies," the Prime Minister asserted. He emphasised the principle of self-determination, stating: "Any decision about the future status of Greenland belongs to the people of Greenland and the kingdom of Denmark alone - that right is fundamental and we support it."
Defending Alliance Principles
Sir Keir underscored the importance of respecting the bonds within the NATO alliance, of which Denmark is a proud member. "Alliances endure because they are built on respect and partnership - not pressure," he added pointedly.
When questioned by journalists, including from the Mirror, on whether he would rule out retaliatory UK tariffs on the US, the Prime Minister avoided direct escalation. He reiterated that a tariff war is in no one's interest, focusing instead on de-escalation: "My focus is on making sure we don't get to that stage."
He confirmed the news had been "very badly received across the United Kingdom" and described the situation as "very serious." The Prime Minister also revealed he will "no doubt" speak directly to President Trump in the coming days regarding the provocative actions.
