France said it stands firmly with Denmark and Greenland after U.S. President Donald Trump again suggested Washington should take over the Arctic island, citing defense needs. French Foreign Ministry spokesman Pascal Confavreux stressed that Greenland belongs to its people and to Denmark, and that borders cannot be changed by force. Trump made the remarks in an interview with The Atlantic, a day after the U.S. capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, further heightening international concern over Washington’s assertive posture.
Why It Matters
The response underscores growing unease among U.S. allies over Trump’s rhetoric toward sovereignty and territorial integrity. Greenland’s strategic importance has increased sharply due to Arctic security, climate change and great-power competition, but France’s statement reinforces the principle that strategic interests do not override international law. The episode risks straining transatlantic unity at a time when Europe faces multiple security challenges.
Denmark and Greenland are directly affected as they seek to defend their sovereignty while maintaining ties with Washington. France and other European allies are positioning themselves as defenders of international norms. The United States is signaling a more transactional and forceful approach to strategic geography. NATO, with both the U.S. and Denmark as members, also has a stake in avoiding internal friction.
What Next
Denmark and Greenland are likely to continue pushing back diplomatically while rallying European support. Other EU states may echo France’s stance to reinforce collective opposition to any unilateral action. Trump’s comments suggest Greenland will remain part of broader U.S. strategic calculations, keeping the issue alive in transatlantic relations.
With information from Reuters.
