Germany and France warn Trump over Greenland claims

English , International - بین الاقوامی , Snippets , / Wednesday, January 8th, 2025

Download this post as PDF

Germany and France warn Trump over Greenland claims

Sources BBC News

Germany and France have strongly opposed U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s recent comments about using military force to take control of Greenland, Denmark’s autonomous territory. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz asserted that “the principle of inviolability of borders applies to every country,” regardless of size or power. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot added that the European Union would not tolerate any foreign nation threatening its sovereign borders.

Trump reiterated his desire to acquire Greenland, which he has previously expressed interest in during his first term as president. He emphasized the island’s strategic importance, particularly for U.S. national and economic security, due to its location for tracking Chinese and Russian ships. Trump refused to rule out the use of military or economic force to seize the territory, prompting international concern.

Denmark, a close U.S. ally, has firmly rejected Trump’s idea, stating that Greenland is not for sale and belongs to its inhabitants. Greenland’s Prime Minister Mute Egede has also made clear that the territory’s sovereignty and self-determination are non-negotiable, though he continues to seek constructive cooperation with the U.S. and other countries.

Most Greenlanders, while pushing for greater independence from Denmark, do not support becoming a colony of another foreign power. The island’s population of just 57,000, which relies on Denmark for defense and public services, recognizes its need for external partnerships.

Trump’s comments have raised concerns about potential diplomatic fallout and the impact on Denmark’s relations with the U.S. The situation remains tense, with Greenland’s leaders stressing their commitment to self-determination and peaceful, productive international partnerships.