French President Emmanuel Macron strongly criticized U.S. President Donald Trump’s threat to impose steep tariffs if Europe does not allow the U.S. to take over Greenland. Macron emphasized that Europe would not yield to intimidation or bullying. While other European leaders aimed to maintain a calm approach, Macron took a more assertive stance, stating that France and Europe would not passively submit to the law of the strongest.
Macron, speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, highlighted the importance of upholding territorial sovereignty and the rule of law in the face of what he described as a shift towards a lawless world. He expressed a preference for respect over bullying and emphasized the importance of adhering to the rule of law rather than resorting to brutality.
The French president also mentioned the possibility of the EU imposing its own significant trade sanctions in response to the situation. Trump had threatened substantial tariffs on French wine and champagne and breached diplomatic discretion by posting private messages from Macron.
Macron called Washington’s tariff tactics “fundamentally unacceptable,” especially when used as leverage against territorial sovereignty. In response, EU leaders scheduled an emergency summit to address the Greenland issue. The EU could potentially impose tariffs on U.S. goods amounting to 93 billion euros by early February.
Macron advocated for considering the use of the Anti-Coercion Instrument, referred to as the “trade bazooka,” to restrict U.S. access to public tenders or limit trade in services like tech platforms. The strained relationship between the U.S. and Europe worsened due to Trump’s efforts to assert control over Greenland and France’s reluctance to join a proposed “Board of Peace.”
Despite the tensions, Macron confirmed that he had no plans to alter his schedule to accommodate a meeting with Trump in Davos. Trump had previously threatened to impose significant tariffs on French wines and champagnes. Macron’s steadfast stance on democratic principles has drawn criticism and attention, with some viewing France as a target due to its resistance against perceived bullying tactics.