Uk and Denmark meet after Trump drops Greenland tariff threats

Friday 23 January 2026 - 07:50

By: Dakir Madiha

Uk and Denmark meet after Trump drops Greenland tariff threats

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer hosted Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen at Chequers on Thursday, in the first high-level talks between the two nations since US President Donald Trump abruptly withdrew his threat to impose tariffs on European allies resisting his ambitions over Greenland.

The meeting came less than 24 hours after Trump announced he would not proceed with 10 percent duties set for February 1, following what he called a "very productive" session with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. Trump stated the two had laid out a framework for future Arctic security arrangements.

Frederiksen expressed thanks for the United Kingdom's support during what she described as a challenging time for Denmark. She praised the British approach, telling Starmer: "You have a cup of tea, then you think about everything a bit. You put the facts on the table, and then you find a solution."

Starmer called Trump's reversal a sign of pragmatism, common sense, and commitment to shared values. He shifted focus to substantive work on bolstering Arctic security, noting that the remote region holds real importance for national safety across allied countries. Downing Street credited the de-escalation to behind-the-scenes diplomacy, including steady communication with the US administration in Davos and close coordination with NATO's leadership.

Denmark and Greenland drew firm lines despite the eased tensions. Frederiksen made clear that while talks on security, investments, and the economy could proceed, sovereignty remains off the table. Greenland's Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen echoed this, labeling territorial integrity a non-negotiable red line. NATO spokesperson Allison Hart confirmed Rutte proposed no sovereignty compromises in his discussions with Trump.

Details of the framework agreement stay vague. Trump told Fox News it grants "full access" without time limits, while Rutte described collective NATO efforts to shield the Arctic from Russian and Chinese encroachments, with concrete security steps expected early in 2026.

UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper outlined an "Arctic sentinel" framework for NATO allies to tackle shared regional threats. She ruled out joining Trump's new "peace council" initiative over concerns about potential Russian President Vladimir Putin involvement. Starmer confirmed no direct talk with Trump yet since the tariff threat lifted but anticipates a conversation soon.