Need to know
President Donald Trump has set his sights on Greenland after stating the US “must have” the mineral-rich Danish territory, claiming that it’s vital for American security
- President Donald Trump has stated that the US “must have” Greenland, claiming the mineral-rich Danish territory is vital for American security to prevent Russia and China from seizing it first. Speaking to NBC News, the US president said “no comment” when asked whether the US would use military force to take Greenland.
- To pressure European allies into a deal, the US has threatened a 10% tariff on all goods from eight NATO allies (including the UK) starting February 1, rising to 25% by June.
- The US argument for needing Greenland relies on melting ice sheets opening new sea routes — a scenario driven by man-made global warming, a science the Trump administration has frequently rejected.
- Tensions escalated after Trump suggested he no longer feels “obligated to think of peace” because he was not awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, specifically citing this in a message to Norway’s Prime Minister.
- Experts warn that a forced annexation or “blackmailed” sale of Greenland would destroy the NATO alliance, as it undermines the sovereignty of member nations like Denmark.
- Prime Minister Keir Starmer has condemned the use of tariffs against allies as “completely wrong,” insisting that Greenland’s future belongs solely to its people and the Kingdom of Denmark.
- Speaking at the PMQs, he said: “I will not yield, Britain will not yield on our principles and values about the future of Greenland under threats of tariffs, and that is my clear position.”
- While the UK acknowledges the Arctic is becoming a strategic flashpoint for Russia’s fleet, officials argue for a collective NATO mission to defend the region rather than unilateral US control.
- Defence expert Professor Anthony Glees argues that despite the pressure, the UK must remain confident in its own military independence and nuclear deterrent, stating: “We need to stop talking down our strength and whining that we cannot live without holding Nanny’s hand. Because we can.”
- READ THE FULL STORY HERE: UK and allies battle to bring Trump back from brink as he sparks Greenland invasion fears
