Starmer: Trump dropping tariff threats over Greenland 'a good thing'

Starmer Welcomes Lifting of Tariff Threats Following Davos Breakthrough

The Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, has addressed the shifting diplomatic landscape following US President Donald Trump’s controversial proposal to seize Greenland on national security grounds. While the initial suggestion sparked global concern, a recent meeting at the World Economic Forum in Davos appears to have de-escalated immediate tensions.

De-escalation at Davos

After meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte in Switzerland, President Trump has reportedly backed away from his threat of a trade war. Previously, the President had suggested 10% import duties on eight nations, including the UK.

Sir Keir Starmer stated on Thursday that it is a "good thing" the threat of tariffs against the United Kingdom has been lifted. Speaking in Hertfordshire, the Prime Minister remarked:

"Now we can begin the hard yards of securing Arctic defence. It may seem distant, but it is vital for the safety and stability of our region. We have navigated the last few days with a mixture of British pragmatism and common sense, while sticking to our core values."

The "Arctic Sentry" Agreement

While details remain sparse, the potential agreement discussed at Davos—referred to by Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper as an "Arctic Sentry"—focuses on NATO allies working together against shared threats in the region.

Despite rumours that the deal might involve mineral rights to Greenland’s vast reserves of rare earth metals—essential for electronics and electric vehicles—Ms Cooper told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme she was "not aware of any such discussions." She attributed the easing of tensions to the UK's "determined diplomacy and a coordinated strategy across allies."

The Chagos Islands Controversy

The diplomatic breakthrough follows a period of friction involving the Chagos Islands. President Trump recently criticised the UK’s decision to cede sovereignty of the islands to Mauritius as a "great mistake," despite having previously praised the move.

The UK government maintains that the agreement—which includes leasing back a vital military base—was necessary to avoid losing the islands entirely following legal advice.

Political Reaction at Home:

• Sir Ed Davey (Liberal Democrats): Criticised the Prime Minister’s calm response to Trump’s social media attacks, urging him to "stand up to bullies."

• Sir Keir Starmer: Responded with his firmest condemnation of the US President yet, telling MPs he would not be pressured over the government’s position on Greenland. He alleged that Trump’s shift on the Chagos Islands was an "express intention" to exert leverage over the UK.

   

• Kemi Badenoch (Conservative Leader): Supported the Prime Minister’s stance on Greenland but attacked the Chagos deal, accusing the government of "giving away territory" and paying billions for the privilege.

Yvette Cooper dismissed opposition claims regarding the costs of the Chagos agreement as "propaganda," arguing that critics had "jumped on the bandwagon" and were undermining the national interest.

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