- UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves tells BBC that Britain "won't rule anything out" in response to US President Trump's tariff threats linked to Greenland.
- Threats stem from escalating transatlantic trade tensions over the Danish territory, as Trump prepares to attend Davos World Economic Forum.
- Reeves emphasizes Britain's readiness to protect national interests amid potential economic fallout.
- Comments highlight growing friction in UK-US relations during Trump's upcoming Davos trip.
London (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – 21 January 2026 – UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves stated that Britain will not rule out any measures in response to US President Donald Trump's tariff threats linked to Greenland. The comments came during a BBC interview as Trump prepared to attend the Davos World Economic Forum. Reeves emphasised readiness to protect British interests amid escalating transatlantic trade tensions over the Danish territory.
Reeves made the remarks on Wednesday morning, addressing Trump's announced tariffs on multiple European nations including the UK. The US leader tied the levies to demands for Greenland's sale, prompting reactions across Europe. Her statement reflects coordinated European responses at the Swiss economic summit.
Reeves' BBC Interview Key Statements
Credit: Kayla Bartkowski/Getty Images
Chancellor Reeves told the BBC that the UK government remains prepared for various scenarios. She declined to exclude retaliatory tariffs or other actions against the US measures. The interview occurred ahead of Trump's delayed arrival in Davos due to aircraft issues.
Reeves highlighted the importance of safeguarding UK exports facing 10 per cent tariffs from 1 February. These would increase to 25 per cent by June without a Greenland deal. She coordinated positions with European counterparts at the forum.
Trump's Davos Travel and Tariff Timeline
President Trump planned to arrive at the World Economic Forum three hours late on Wednesday. His aircraft experienced electrical problems, delaying the journey. The tariffs target Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the UK, Netherlands, and Finland.
Trump announced the measures on Saturday, framing them as leverage for US control of Greenland. The strategic Arctic island draws interest due to resources and location. European leaders reject the approach, affirming Danish sovereignty.
UK Position Within European Response
Credit: Justin Tallis/Reuters
The UK aligns with allies in opposing tariff use for territorial demands. Reeves' stance echoes French President Macron's criticism of sovereignty leverage. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte manages discreet alliance discussions.
Britain faces direct impact as a named tariff target. Reeves stressed economic preparedness during the BBC exchange. The government monitors developments closely at Davos.
Context of French NATO Proposal and US Reaction
France proposed NATO exercises in Greenland, prompting US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent's rebuke.[ prior] Bessent urged Macron to focus domestically amid France's budget issues. The US views such drills as provocative during purchase talks.
European nations bolster Arctic presence independently. Denmark deploys troops, while Sweden and Germany conduct missions. Greenland's Prime Minister called for readiness against all possibilities.
Broader Transatlantic Trade Tensions
Trump links Greenland to countering Russia and China in the Arctic. Melting ice opens shipping routes, heightening stakes. The UK Chancellor addressed these dynamics without specifics on retaliation forms.
European officials consider unified countermeasures. Davos provides a platform for direct exchanges. Reeves' comments signal firm defence of British trade positions.
Historical UK-US Trade Relations
The UK and US maintain deep economic ties post-Brexit.[conversation history] Recent agreements facilitate goods and services flows.[general knowledge] Tariff threats mark a departure, prompting preparedness statements.
Reeves balances alliance commitments with economic protection. The interview underscores London's proactive stance. Ongoing Davos talks shape next steps.