FEARS TRUMP'S TARIFFS THREAT WILL RIP NATO APART

European leaders warn of 'dangerous downward spiral' after Greenland demands

- BY MICHAEL KNOWLES Home Affairs Editor

DONALD Trump's tariff threats to those opposing his bid to take over Greenland "risk a dangerous downward spiral" that could rip Nato apart, Europe warned.

Russia yesterday hailed the "collapse of the transatlantic union" after the US president threatened levies on all goods from eight countries including Britain if he is not allowed to buy Greenland from Denmark.

Keir Starmer told Mr Trump his strategy was "wrong", and increased strain.

A spokeswoman said Sir Keir had spoken to Danish PM Mette Frederiksen, European commission president Ursula von der Leyen and Nato secretary-general Mark Rutte, before speaking to the US leader.She added: “In all his calls, the Prime Minister reiterated his position on Greenland. He said that security in the High North is a priority for all Nato allies in order to protect Euro-Atlantic interests.

“He also said that applying tariffs on allies for pursuing the collective security of Nato allies is wrong.”

Ms Frederiksen also warned Mr Trump that “Europe will not be blackmailed”.

Nato chief Mr Rutte said he had spoken with Mr Trump yesterday “regarding the security situation in Greenland and the Arctic”.