Ed Davey Launches Scathing Attack in UK Parliament
In a sharp rebuke of US foreign policy, UK Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey on Tuesday accused former US President Donald Trump of acting like an “international gangster”. Speaking in the UK Parliament, Davey described Trump as a bully who relies on threats and coercion instead of diplomacy. His remarks came amid rising tensions over Trump’s tariff-linked threats against the United Kingdom and several European allies. According to Davey, the current global climate marks an “incredibly grave moment” for international relations.
Tariff Threats and Greenland Row Trigger Backlash
Davey’s comments followed Trump’s renewed push to pressure countries opposing his plan to “buy” or annex Greenland from Denmark. Trump has reportedly targeted the UK and other European nations with trade threats for supporting Denmark’s refusal. Recently, Trump announced plans to impose import tariffs ranging from 10% to 25% on goods from eight European countries, including Britain, starting February. He justified the move by claiming the US “needs” Greenland for security reasons to counter China and Russia. Critics, however, view the move as economic bullying.
‘Special Relationship Nearly in Tatters,’ says Davey
Addressing lawmakers during a tense parliamentary session, Davey warned that the historic UK–US “special relationship” now stands “nearly in tatters”. He accused Trump of threatening the sovereignty of allied nations and even endangering the future of NATO. Davey said Trump behaves like someone who believes he can “grab whatever he wants using force if necessary”. He added that such actions weaken democratic alliances and embolden America’s rivals. According to Davey, only Russia’s Vladimir Putin and China’s Xi Jinping benefit from the current discord.
UK Must Stand Firm, Davey Warns
The Liberal Democrat leader also criticised both the current Labour government and previous Conservative administrations. He accused them of appeasing Trump through flattery and political caution. That approach, Davey argued, has failed. He said Britain now faces a clear choice—either stand up to Trump’s pressure tactics or risk further erosion of its diplomatic standing. Referring sarcastically to Trump’s business interests, Davey warned against attempting to buy goodwill through financial incentives. He urged the UK to defend democratic values and allied sovereignty instead of yielding to threats.
