22nd Jan 2026 14:09
(Alliance News) - Keir Starmer said he will discuss how to "take the vital steps" towards strengthened security in the Arctic with Denmark's prime minister, who thanked him for the UK's support during "quite a difficult time" for the country amid Donald Trump's demands to annex its semi-autonomous territory Greenland.
The UK prime minister and his Danish counterpart Mette Frederiksen met at Chequers, a day after the US president dropped threats against European nations opposed to his ambitions to take over the mineral-rich island.
Starmer said Trump's shift in position was a "good thing" following weeks of pressure on the UK and allies which saw Europe and America teeter on the brink of a trade war.
He said it was a "reflection of pragmatism", as Frederiksen praised the "British way of doing things", saying: "You have a cup of tea and then you think a bit about everything."
With media present before their private talks at the prime minister's grace-and-favour country estate, Starmer said: "In terms of recent developments and the withdrawal of the threat of tariffs, I see that as a reflection of pragmatism, common sense and sticking to our values and our principles.
"The hard yards now finding a better way forward on the issue that we all agree on, which is security in the Arctic, is the next chapter here, and I look forward to discussing with you how we take the vital steps down that path."
The prime minister also stressed the importance of "making sure Nato is strong and united", after the possibility of Trump taking Greenland by force – which he has since ruled out – left the alliance reeling.
Frederiksen said: "From the bottom of my heart, I would like to thank you and the UK for your very strong support to the Kingdom of Denmark.
"I think everybody recognises that it has been quite a difficult time for us."
By Sophie Wingate, Press Association Deputy Political Editor
Press Association: News
source: PA
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