Paris, January 18 – French President Emmanuel Macron has issued a stern rebuke against US tariff threats targeting Greenland, labeling them utterly unacceptable. In a fiery social media post on X, Macron warned that Europe stands ready to respond in unison if these threats materialize.
Macron’s comments come in direct response to US President Donald Trump’s announcement on Saturday, where he vowed to impose 10% tariffs on goods from Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, Britain, the Netherlands, and Finland starting February 1, escalating to 25% by early June. The move is tied to ongoing tensions over Greenland, the world’s largest island and a self-governing Danish territory.
‘France is committed to the sovereignty and freedom of countries in Europe and around the world,’ Macron wrote. ‘This guides our decisions and our commitment to the United Nations Charter. It’s why we support Ukraine and will continue to do so. We’ve formed alliances with nations seeking strong, lasting peace to defend these principles and our security.’
He highlighted France’s participation in a military exercise in Greenland organized by Denmark, emphasizing the stakes for Arctic security and Europe’s outer borders. ‘We take full responsibility for this decision because our security is at risk,’ he added.
Macron drew a firm line: ‘No threat or pressure will sway us—neither in Ukraine, Greenland, nor anywhere else. Tariff threats have no place here and are unacceptable. If implemented, European countries will respond united and coordinated. We will ensure European sovereignty endures. I will discuss this with my European partners in this spirit.’
Greenland remains under Danish oversight for defense and foreign affairs, despite its autonomy. The US maintains a military base there, and Trump has repeatedly expressed interest in acquiring the strategic Arctic outpost since returning to power in 2025.
This escalating rhetoric underscores deepening transatlantic rifts, particularly as Europe bolsters its defenses amid global uncertainties. Macron’s vow signals a potential trade war flashpoint, with the EU poised to protect its interests collectively.
