From France to Germany: European countries preparing to respond to Trump’s intentions in Greenland

Political unrest in Brussels and Paris has intensified this week as several European countries, led by France and Germany, finalise a joint plan in response to what they view as unusual pressure from the United States on Greenland, an autonomous territory of the Kingdom of Denmark located in the Arctic.

The spark for this debate was a reiteration from the White House of President Donald Trump’s ambition to “intervene” in Greenland, including a suggestion that the use of force could be considered as a political tool. Although Secretary of State Marco Rubio has emphasised diplomatic solutions, the reference to military options has raised alarm among European allies.

In Paris, Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot defended the need for the European Union to “prepare convincing responses” to any attempt at intimidation or unilateral changes to the island’s status. France stressed that these measures, while coordinated with allies, are not intended to confront Washington directly but rather to “preserve Greenland’s sovereignty and uphold the principles of international law.”

German diplomacy, meanwhile, has focused on strengthening cooperation within NATO. Berlin has described the idea of an attack by one Alliance ally on another as “absurd,” but insists that the situation requires strategic clarity and firm communication among members.

In addition to France and Germany, other countries—including Poland, Spain, and the United Kingdom—have voiced support for a coordinated European approach that combines political pressure, a reinforced presence in the Arctic, and diplomatic mechanisms designed to maintain the status quo.

From Copenhagen, Danish and Greenlandic authorities have requested an urgent meeting with US officials to clarify the territory’s future. Their message is unequivocal: Greenland is not for sale, and its fate must be decided solely by its inhabitants and Denmark, without external interference.

International analysts warn that beyond the rhetoric, this episode could mark a turning point in transatlantic relations and test NATO’s cohesion if tensions between traditional partners are not carefully managed.

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