LONDON

The British prime minister on Saturday rejected US President Donald Trump's tariff threats against eight European countries over Greenland, saying applying tariffs on allies is "completely wrong."

In a statement, Keir Starmer reiterated the UK's position that Greenland is part of Denmark and its future is a matter for the Greenlanders and the Danes to decide.

"We have also made clear that Arctic security matters for the whole of NATO and allies should all do more together to address the threat from Russia across different parts of the Arctic," he said in the statement as reported by the BBC.

Starmer added that putting tariffs on allies for pursuing the collective security of NATO allies is "completely wrong," and added that they will be pursuing this directly with the US administration.

His remarks came after Trump said earlier on Saturday that Washington will impose new tariffs on goods from eight European countries starting on Feb. 1, with rates rising sharply in June, citing "national security" concerns linked to Greenland.

Greenland, a self-governing territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, has attracted US interest due to its strategic location and vast mineral resources, as well as alleged concerns about rising Russian and Chinese activity.

Trump has repeatedly said that the US must acquire Greenland for national security and to prevent Russia or China from gaining control of the territory.

Both Denmark and Greenland have rejected any proposal to sell the territory, reaffirming Danish sovereignty over the island.