Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy has declared the United Kingdom's position on the sovereignty of Greenland as "non-negotiable," as European nations unite in condemnation of former US President Donald Trump's threat to impose punitive tariffs.
Trump's Tariff Ultimatum Over Greenland
The diplomatic row erupted after Trump announced plans to levy a 10% tariff on several NATO countries, including the UK, France, and Germany, effective from 1 February. In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump stated the measure targeted nations that had deployed troops to Greenland amidst growing uncertainty over the territory's future.
He warned that these tariffs would escalate to 25% on 1 June if a deal for the United States to purchase Greenland had not been reached. Trump described the European military movements as a "very dangerous situation for the safety, security and survival of our planet."
UK Leadership Condemns 'Completely Wrong' Move
Prime Minister Keir Starmer led the criticism, labelling Trump's tariff decision "completely wrong." In a statement, Starmer reinforced that Greenland is part of the kingdom of Denmark and its future is solely a matter for Greenlanders and the Danish people.
When pressed on Sky News about whether the UK would ever accept the US proposal, Lisa Nandy was unequivocal. "Yes, of course," she stated, echoing the Prime Minister's clarity. "The future of Greenland is for the people of Greenland and the people of the kingdom of Denmark to determine and for them alone," Nandy affirmed.
She emphasised that this consistent view had been communicated to allies in the American administration, but refused to be drawn on specific retaliatory measures, such as imposing UK tariffs or delaying King Charles's state visit to the US.
Cross-Party Condemnation and Broader Implications
Opposition leaders joined the government in criticising Trump's strategy. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch stated the tariffs would be "yet another burden for businesses" and that Greenland's sovereignty should be decided only by its people.
Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey accused Trump of "punishing the UK and NATO allies just for doing the right thing," urging the Prime Minister to stand firm. Meanwhile, Reform UK's Nigel Farage suggested that if Greenland's vulnerability was the concern, attention should turn to the status of Diego Garcia instead.
The strong, unified response from UK politicians underscores the significant tension this proposal has injected into transatlantic relations, with allies prioritising diplomatic solidarity and the principle of self-determination over economic threats.
