Keir Starmer engaged in discussions with Donald Trump today while European leaders aimed to ease concerns regarding his threats to annex Greenland. Acting as a mediator, the Prime Minister endeavored to persuade the US President to pursue his objectives through diplomatic channels rather than resorting to force to claim the Danish-controlled territory.
Following an initial conversation with the President on Wednesday evening, PM Starmer held talks with Mette Frederiksen, the Danish Prime Minister. No10 confirmed that Mr. Starmer reiterated his stance on Greenland during the discussions, emphasizing the importance of NATO enhancing its presence in the region to deter Russian aggression, a sentiment agreed upon by both leaders.
Subsequently, he communicated along similar lines with Mark Rutte, Nato’s Secretary General, before engaging in further dialogue with Trump later in the day.
A spokesperson from Downing Street reported, “The leaders deliberated on Euro-Atlantic security matters and concurred on the necessity to deter a more assertive Russia in the High North. While European Allies have bolstered their defense of Euro-Atlantic interests in recent months, the Prime Minister highlighted the potential for additional measures to safeguard the region.”
Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy was scheduled to meet with US Vice President JD Vance today, with discussions likely to cover Greenland and Venezuela among other topics.
The Deputy Prime Minister is currently in the United States to participate in an event commemorating the 250th Anniversary of America’s Declaration of Independence from Britain.
French President Emmanuel Macron cautioned yesterday that under Trump, the US was veering away from international norms and gradually distancing itself from some allies. However, UK minister Pat McFadden reiterated that the US remains a dependable ally despite President Trump’s conduct.
Downing Street affirmed that the Prime Minister, who has consistently advocated for Greenland’s fate to be determined solely by Greenland and Denmark, reiterated his stance on Greenland during the call.