UK Backs Denmark Amid Rising Tensions Over Greenland

London, United Kingdom — 12 January 2026

📰 Summary

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has publicly affirmed the United Kingdom’s support for Denmark’s position on the future of Greenland, following escalating tensions triggered by US President Donald Trump’s renewed assertions that the United States could “acquire” the Arctic territory.

Starmer’s comments align the UK firmly with Denmark and Greenland’s right to self-determination, a stance he has repeated consistently in recent weeks. His remarks come amid a broader geopolitical dispute involving the US, Denmark, and European allies.

🌍 Context & Background

President Trump has repeatedly suggested that the US may take over Greenland, citing national security interests. In recent statements, US officials have even implied that military means could be used to “acquire” the territory.
Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen strongly rejected the idea, stating that the US has “no right to annex” any part of the Danish Kingdom, which includes Greenland.
The controversy follows a dramatic US military operation in Venezuela, raising concerns among European leaders about Washington’s willingness to use force in international disputes.

Starmer’s Position

Across multiple interviews and diplomatic calls, Starmer has:

Declared that “the future of Greenland is for Greenland and the Kingdom of Denmark only”.
Emphasised Denmark’s status as a close NATO and European ally, underscoring the importance of standing with partners during geopolitical uncertainty.
Reiterated this stance directly to President Trump during a phone call, stressing that Greenland’s sovereignty must be respected and determined solely by its people and Denmark.

🌐 International Reactions

Denmark has welcomed the UK’s support, with Frederiksen and Starmer reaffirming shared commitments to deterring Russian aggression in the High North and protecting Euro-Atlantic interests.
European allies have issued joint statements signalling they will “not stop defending” Greenland’s territorial integrity, a message widely interpreted as directed at Washington.
US officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President JD Vance, continue to argue that Greenland is strategically essential for missile defence and global security, urging Europe to “take the security of that land mass more seriously.

🔎 Why This Matters

Greenland’s status has become a flashpoint in a broader struggle over Arctic influence, involving the US, Europe, Russia, and China. Starmer’s public alignment with Denmark signals: