France has declared that the European Union will defend its "sovereign borders" against any threats, following U.S. President-Elect Donald Trump’s refusal to rule out military
action to seize Greenland.
On Tuesday, Trump reaffirmed his interest in acquiring the Danish-controlled Arctic territory, describing it as "critical" for U.S. national and economic security. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot responded during a radio interview, stating, "The European Union will never permit external powers to attack its sovereign borders, no matter who they are."
While Barrot dismissed the likelihood of an American invasion of Greenland, he emphasized that the EU must not yield to intimidation.
Trump’s fascination with buying Greenland is well-documented, dating back to his first presidential term. Denmark, a longstanding U.S. ally, has repeatedly asserted that Greenland is not for sale, underscoring the autonomy of its inhabitants. Greenland’s Prime Minister Mute Egede, who is advocating for independence, has also firmly rejected the idea of selling the territory.
At a news conference held at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida, Trump was asked whether he would rule out military or economic measures to gain control of Greenland or the Panama Canal. His response: "No, I can’t guarantee that. But I will say this, we need them for economic security."
Greenland has long been strategically important for the U.S., housing a radar base since the Cold War. Trump described the island as vital for monitoring Russian and Chinese military activity in the Arctic. "It’s about safeguarding the free world," he stated.
Barrot urged vigilance, saying, "If you’re asking whether the United States will invade Greenland, my answer is no. But are we in an era where strength determines survival? Absolutely. We must not give in to fear but instead strengthen our resolve."
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen echoed these sentiments, asserting that "Greenland belongs to the Greenlanders" and only they could decide its future. While advocating for close ties with the U.S., Frederiksen stressed that Denmark remained firm in its commitment to Greenland’s autonomy.
Greenland, the world’s largest island with a population of just 57,000, enjoys substantial autonomy. However, it remains economically dependent on Danish subsidies. The island is also rich in rare earth minerals, vital for high-tech industries, which has heightened its strategic significance.
According to Steffen Kretz, a senior correspondent in Greenland’s capital Nuuk, Trump’s comments have left many residents "shocked." While there is broad support for eventual independence, Kretz noted that Greenlanders recognize the necessity of having a reliable partner for economic stability and defense—roles currently filled by Denmark.
Though Denmark has sought to downplay tensions with Trump, Kretz warned that this issue could escalate into one of the most significant diplomatic challenges for the country in modern history.
Meanwhile, Trump’s son, Donald Trump Jr., visited Greenland on what he described as a "personal day trip," meeting locals and posing for photos in pro-Trump attire. Photo by French Army, Wikimedia commons.