France warns Trump over military threats to Greenland

France has issued a stern warning to former U.S. President Donald Trump over his recent comments about potentially using military force to acquire Greenland, an autonomous territory of EU member Denmark.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot emphasized the European Union’s firm stance on protecting its borders during an interview with France Inter radio.

“There is obviously no question that the European Union would let other nations of the world attack its sovereign borders, whoever they are,” Barrot declared. “We are a strong continent.”

The tensions stem from Trump’s renewed interest in Greenland, which first surfaced in 2019 when he floated the idea of purchasing the territory, prompting Denmark’s Prime Minister to dismiss the notion as “absurd.” Trump subsequently canceled a planned visit to Copenhagen.

During a recent press conference, Trump was questioned about his stance on acquiring Greenland and the Panama Canal. His response reignited concerns: “No, I can’t assure you on either of those two. But I can say this, we need them for economic security.”

Trump later elaborated on his position via his social media platform, Truth Social, writing, “Greenland is an incredible place, and the people will benefit tremendously if and when it becomes part of our nation. We will protect it, and cherish it, from a very vicious outside world. MAKE GREENLAND GREAT AGAIN.”

While Barrot expressed concern over Trump’s remarks, he downplayed the likelihood of actual military conflict. “If you’re asking me whether I think the United States will invade Greenland, my answer is no. But have we entered into a period of time when it is survival of the fittest? Then my answer is yes,” he commented.

Denmark has consistently rejected any notion of selling Greenland, with Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen reiterating the kingdom’s position. “I don’t think it’s a good way forward to fight each other with financial means when we are close allies and partners,” Frederiksen said. She welcomed U.S. interest in the Arctic but stressed that any engagement must be “done in a way that is respectful of the Greenlandic people.”

Greenlandic Prime Minister Mute Egede, who advocates for eventual independence from Denmark, also firmly dismissed the idea of Greenland joining the U.S. “Greenland is not for sale,” Egede reaffirmed, emphasizing the territory’s aspirations for self-determination.