LONDON: UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has vehemently criticized Donald Trump, labeling him an "international gangster" following Trump's threats to impose tariffs on NATO allies relating to his controversial desire to annex Greenland. The statement comes on the heels of a phone conversation between Starmer and Trump, during which Starmer asserted that levying tariffs against allies contradicts the principles of collective security upheld by NATO.

Trump's remarks about acquiring Greenland—a Nordic territory owned by Denmark—have sparked intense backlash worldwide. Leaders from across Europe, including Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen and the President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, have expressed their dissent. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk and Greenland's Premier Jens Frederik Nielsen have also denounced Trump's overtures, with Nielsen urging him to “stop the threats.”

British lawmakers expressed their disdain for Trump's aggressive stance. Senior Conservative Simon Hoare condemned his behavior, stating, “The civilized world can deal with Trump no longer. He is a gangster pirate.” In furthering this stance, the UK government has reaffirmed its support for Denmark, asserting that Greenland’s sovereignty is “non-negotiable.” Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy echoed this sentiment during a recent BBC interview, reinforcing the UK’s unwavering position.

In a collaborative effort, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, and the United Kingdom issued a joint statement denouncing Trump’s tariff threats. They expressed their commitment to strengthening Arctic security, emphasizing that such tactics undermine transatlantic relations and could lead to a detrimental downward spiral. This coalition vows to stay united in defending sovereignty and safeguarding the stability of international relations in the Arctic region.