France Warns Trump Over Military Threats to Take Control of Greenland
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Loading... - Atifa Fares
- 08 Jan 2025
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France has issued a stern warning to the United States regarding President-elect Donald Trump's recent comments about potentially using military action to take control of Greenland. The remarks have raised concerns about threats to European Union sovereignty, particularly as Greenland is an autonomous territory of Denmark, an EU member state.
Jean-Noel Barrot, France's foreign minister, emphasized on France Inter radio that the European Union would not tolerate any threats to its borders. "There is obviously no question that the European Union would let other nations of the world attack its sovereign borders, whoever they are," he stated. "We are a strong continent."
Trump's interest in acquiring Greenland dates back to 2019 when he canceled a trip to Copenhagen after Denmark's prime minister dismissed the idea of selling the territory as "absurd." During a recent press conference, Trump was asked whether he would commit to avoiding economic or military action to acquire Greenland and the Panama Canal. He responded, "No, I can't assure you on either of those two. But I can say this, we need them for economic security."
Following the press conference, Trump elaborated on his intentions via his social media platform, Truth Social, stating, “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 comments, he downplayed the likelihood of actual conflict, saying, "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."
Denmark has firmly reiterated that Greenland, which has been part of its kingdom for over 600 years, is not for sale. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen stated, "I don’t think it’s a good way forward to fight each other with financial means when we are close allies and partners." She welcomed US interest in the Arctic but stressed that it must be "done in a way that is respectful of the Greenlandic people."
Greenlandic Prime Minister Mute Egede, who has called for eventual independence from Denmark, also rejected the notion of joining the United States, further solidifying the territory's stance on maintaining its autonomy.
As tensions rise over Trump's comments, the situation highlights the complexities of international relations in the Arctic region and the importance of respecting the sovereignty and wishes of the Greenlandic people.
