Today in Focus Why the UK won’t retaliate to Trump tariffs over Greenland – The Latest
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Jan 19, 2026 
Peter Walker, a senior political correspondent at The Guardian, joins to analyze the implications of Trump’s tariff threats over Greenland. He discusses Keir Starmer's measured response, emphasizing the UK’s reluctance to escalate tensions with the US. Walker contrasts this with the EU's more aggressive stance and highlights the economic panic such tariffs could incite in the UK. The conversation also touches on NATO's significance amidst these trade disputes and the efforts of international leaders to calm Trump during summits in Davos.
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Tariff Threat As A Geopolitical Lever
- Peter Walker explains Trump's tariff threat targets NATO allies to force Greenland concessions and paints it as an open, economy-crippling threat.
- He warns 10% tariffs from February rising to 25% by June could trigger panic in Downing Street and harm economies.
One British Troop In Greenland
- Walker recounts the UK's tiny military presence on Greenland: "just one person."
- He uses the anecdote to underline how absurdly the UK was grouped among nations accused of having troops there.
Starmer's Cautious, Security-Led Response
- Keir Starmer chose a conciliatory but firm public stance, ruling out retaliatory tariffs as the "wrong thing to do."
- Starmer framed security and defence links with the US as a reason to avoid escalating trade reprisals.