Prime Minister Keir Starmer has emphasised that the future status of Greenland is a matter solely for Denmark and the people of Greenland, amid ongoing international discussions.
Speaking at a press conference at 9 Downing Street on Monday, Starmer said: “Any decision about the future status of Greenland belongs to the people of Greenland and the Kingdom of Denmark alone. That right is fundamental, and we will support it.”
During the address, Starmer also outlined the United Kingdom’s broader approach to international affairs, stressing pragmatism, adherence to principles, and protection of British interests at home.
Highlighting the close ties between the UK and the United States, the Prime Minister said sustained engagement had resulted in significant US investment in the British economy, supporting growth, jobs, and skills nationwide. “Through sustained engagement, we have seen significant US investment into the UK economy, running into the hundreds of billions of pounds, supporting growth, skills and jobs right across the country,” he said.
Starmer noted that the UK–US relationship extends beyond economics, encompassing defence, nuclear capability, and intelligence sharing. He described it as “as close and effective as anywhere in the world—keeping Britain safe in an increasingly dangerous environment.”
On international security, Starmer reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to supporting peace and stability abroad. Regarding Gaza, he said the UK is “…open to participating constructively in [President Trump’s] efforts to sustain the ceasefire… and moving onto Phase 2.” On Ukraine, he added: “We strongly support efforts to bring the killing to an end and to secure a ceasefire as soon as possible. We recognise President Trump’s role in pushing that process forward, and we will work closely with the United States, Ukraine, and our other allies to apply pressure where it belongs: on Putin.”
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Starmer also linked foreign policy to domestic concerns, noting that geopolitical instability affects energy prices, food costs, and job security. “When war drives up fuel prices, it is households who feel it first. When supply chains fracture, it is small businesses and working people who absorb the shock,” he said. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting families and businesses, citing measures such as reducing energy bills and freezing rail and prescription charges.
Throughout his speech, Starmer framed the UK’s international approach as one of principled pragmatism, balancing alliances with defence of core values. He asserted, “Being pragmatic does not mean being passive. And partnership does not mean abandoning principle. That is why it’s important to be clear about who we stand with, what we stand for, and where our interests lie.”
He also criticised the use of tariffs and economic pressure against allies, describing them as harmful to British workers and businesses. “Such measures hurt British workers, British business and the British economy and that’s why I’ve been so clear on this issue. A trade war is in no one’s interest and my job is to act always in the UK’s national interest,” the Prime Minister concluded.