Trump's Greenland threat divides readers on UK rejoining the EU

Independent readers were divided after an analysis said Donald Trump's tariff threat over Greenland could prompt the UK to move closer to the EU; some cited US unpredictability and security concerns, while others pointed to the Brexit vote and lengthy negotiations.

An analysis by world affairs editor Sam Kiley suggested Donald Trump's tariff threat over Greenland could be a catalyst for the UK to rejoin the EU. Independent readers responding to the piece expressed a range of views. Some argued that US unpredictability and wider security risks make closer alignment with European allies necessary. Others said rejoining would be politically toxic, would disregard the Brexit vote, and would require lengthy negotiations. What readers said: - Many commenters supported closer integration, saying alignment with the EU would strengthen economic resilience and diplomatic clout in an unstable world. - Several readers suggested interim steps such as joining the single market or customs union rather than full membership as a more immediate move. - Critics warned that calls to rejoin the EU ignore the Brexit vote and would be politically unpopular in many parts of the country. - Some emphasised that rejoining would be a long, complex process requiring legislative alignment, political consensus, and likely years of negotiation. - A number of readers distinguished NATO as the primary security organisation for Europe and questioned whether EU membership would directly improve military defence. Summary: The article records a clear split in public reaction to the idea that the Greenland tariff dispute could push the UK back toward the EU. That division highlights political and practical obstacles to any quick return, with many readers describing rejoining as a lengthy, complex process while others favour closer cooperation in the nearer term. Undetermined at this time.