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The NBA returned to the UK for the first time since 2019, but it seems like British fans were not thrilled with the league playing the US National Anthem before the game.
Earlier this week, President Trump threatened to impose tariffs on the UK and several other European countries that opposed his plans to buy Greenland.
BREAKING: Donald Trump has said the UK and seven other European countries will be charged a 10% tariff ‘on any and all goods’ sent to the US from February, until a deal is reached to buy Greenland
The tariff will increase to 25% from June 1 pic.twitter.com/fhMpgAdQ2q
— The National (@ScotNational) January 17, 2026
On Sunday, a video went viral showing national anthem singer Vanessa Williams being heckled by British fans yelling “leave Greenland alone,” referencing President Trump’s desire to take over Greenland.
WATCH: During the U.S. national anthem before an NBA game in London, a person in the crowd yelled, “Leave Greenland alone!” and the British crowd loudly cheered.
pic.twitter.com/epgpgs7awJ— Republicans against Trump (@RpsAgainstTrump) January 18, 2026
Despite Trump’s threats, the UK showed support with other NATO members in opposing Trump’s Greenland purchase.
Joint statement by Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, and the United Kingdom 👇 pic.twitter.com/Gxf3F1Dc3p
— Denmark MFA 🇩🇰 (@DanishMFA) January 18, 2026
As members of NATO, we are committed to strengthening Arctic security as a shared transatlantic interest. The pre-coordinated Danish exercise “Arctic Endurance” conducted with Allies, responds to this necessity. It poses no threat to anyone.We stand in full solidarity with the Kingdom of Denmark and the people of Greenland. Building on the process begun last week, we stand ready to engage in a dialogue based on the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity that we stand firmly behind.Tariff threats undermine transatlantic relations and risk a dangerous downward spiral. We will continue to stand united and coordinated in our response. We are committed to upholding our sovereignty.