The PM and Labour’s ruling body blocked Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham from contesting the Reddish & Denton by-election, halting a return to Westminster mid-term. MPs, unions and donors warned of deepening rifts and urged a rethink amid leadership‑challenge speculation.
Keir Starmer condemned Donald Trump for remarks seen as belittling Nato troops’ sacrifices, especially those who served in Afghanistan. He urged an apology to bereaved families, reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to the alliance, and said such comments undermine security and duty to service personnel.
At Davos, Volodymyr Zelenskyy urged Europe to “stand up for yourselves,” criticising “Greenland mode” complacency and reliance on Washington. He called for tougher, united measures against aggression, stronger energy support, and sustained aid to rebuild and protect infrastructure.
Donald Trump said a framework for a future deal over Greenland has been agreed, and paused planned tariffs after talks with NATO chief Mark Rutte. In a Davos address, he said any arrangement would not involve coercion. Allies await details on the scope and timetable.
European leaders criticised Donald Trump’s push to take control of Greenland, calling it “new colonialism”. Macron, speaking at Davos, urged a rethink and respect for Arctic residents and international law, while Brussels warned of diplomatic fallout.
Donald Trump linked threats over Greenland to being denied the Nobel prize, warning of tariffs on European imports unless objections ceased. In messages to Nordic leaders he hinted at taking control of the island. The PM called for calm with allies and ruled out backing any coercive action.
EU leaders are weighing €93bn in tariffs on US goods after Trump threatened economic pressure over Greenland. In a call, the PM told him targeting allies is unacceptable. Brussels is also exploring tighter limits on US firms’ access to EU contracts as part of a coordinated response.
Donald Trump warned he would impose tariffs on countries that refuse to support his proposal to acquire Greenland, increasing pressure on European partners. A US congressional delegation visited Copenhagen as Danish leaders reiterated that Greenland is not for sale.
Robert Jenrick quit the Tories to join Reform UK, hours after being dismissed as shadow justice secretary by Kemi Badenoch for alleged plotting. He called the Conservatives a failed project and vowed to rally right‑leaning voters, raising concern about further defections.
Denmark says Washington remains intent on “conquering” Greenland after talks, with no progress narrowing differences. Copenhagen insists any decision must respect Greenlanders’ will and the unity of the Danish realm, warning unilateral moves in the Arctic would strain cooperation.