EU will not allow attacks on its borders, French Foreign Minister

The European Union has made it clear that it will not tolerate any infringements on its sovereign borders, following US President-elect Donald Trump’s recent comments about potentially using force to take control of Greenland, a self-governing territory of Denmark.

In a statement on Wednesday, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot strongly reiterated that the EU is united in its stance to defend its territorial integrity. Barrot’s remarks came in response to Trump’s repeated assertions that Greenland is of strategic importance to the United States and could be acquired for “economic security.” Trump notably did not rule out military or economic pressure to achieve this aim, drawing concern from both European officials and global observers.

While Barrot expressed skepticism that the US would actually invade Greenland, he acknowledged the rising global tensions, warning that the world had entered a “survival of the fittest” era. He also urged the European Commission to take stronger measures to protect the continent from potential external threats.

The French foreign minister emphasized that Europe must be more proactive in safeguarding its interests, calling for enhanced unity and strength within the EU to prevent outside interference.
The European Commission, however, has refrained from issuing a direct rebuke of Trump’s remarks. A spokesperson for the Commission simply reaffirmed that “the sovereignty of states must be respected,” without offering further comment on the matter.

While France’s comments are seen as a show of solidarity with Denmark, which maintains control over Greenland, the broader EU remains cautious, focusing instead on defending the principle of national sovereignty while avoiding escalation with the United States.

Trump’s remarks have stirred diplomatic discussions on the future of Greenland, an area rich in resources and strategic positioning. Denmark has firmly rejected any foreign encroachment on its territory, maintaining its commitment to the peaceful governance of Greenland and its autonomy.