Donald Trump has reversed his decision to impose tariffs on the UK and other allies in the dispute over Greenland. The US President announced the change on his social media platform, Truth Social, following widespread international criticism. The shift in stance came shortly after Keir Starmer vowed to resist the tariff threats.
Trump mentioned that a resolution had been achieved after talks with NATO chief Mark Rutte. The move to introduce tariffs on February 1 in response to opposition against his Greenland acquisition plans had sparked global condemnation.
When questioned by a reporter about the details of the agreement, Trump hinted at a long-term deal without specifying ownership terms. He emphasized that the deal was indefinite and highlighted its significance for the US and European leaders, focusing on Arctic security issues.
In a statement on Truth Social, Trump outlined the progress made with NATO Secretary General Rutte towards a potential deal concerning Greenland and the broader Arctic region. He declared that the US would not proceed with the scheduled tariffs due to this understanding.
Initially, Trump had threatened to impose 10% tariffs on Britain and other European allies starting February 1 unless they accepted his proposal to acquire Greenland. He also warned of a tariff increase to 25% by June for NATO member countries.
This development reflects what some Wall Street insiders have labeled as the Trump Always Chickens Out (TACO) trend, where the President retreats from controversial decisions when faced with negative market reactions.
Trump expressed intentions to discuss the Golden Dome defense system in Greenland further. Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff were designated to lead these negotiations.
The President argued for US control over Greenland citing national security concerns, claiming it as a potential target for Russia and China. His readiness to deploy troops to the Danish territory raised alarm, prompting allies like the UK to consider bolstering security in the region as an alternative to US intervention.
During a session of PMQs, Keir Starmer reaffirmed the UK’s stance against Trump’s tariff threats related to Greenland, denouncing attempts to pressure Nato allies over the territory issue. He emphasized Britain’s commitment to its principles and values regarding Greenland’s future.
In a sharp critique of the US President, Starmer accused Trump of using manipulative language regarding the Chagos Islands deal to coerce Britain and undermine its principles on Greenland’s future.