France appeals for NATO military exercises in Greenland, escalating tensions with the US after Trump’s territorial claims.
NATO Exercises Requested by France
France is appealing to NATO allies for military exercises in Greenland, offering to contribute its own forces. The request came in a statement from the Élysée Palace just hours after Donald Trump confirmed his plans to take over the territory at a press conference.
The Greenland issue is causing growing tensions in relations between Paris and Washington.
French Troops Deployed Without US Participation
Last week, France deployed about fifteen soldiers from its mountain Chasseurs Alpins units to Greenland for an international reconnaissance mission, excluding American participation. This move angered the White House, especially as President Macron announced plans to deploy additional land, air, and sea forces to Greenland.
However, according to “L’Express,” Paris does not currently plan to proceed with such an operation.
Trump’s Greenland Demands
Meanwhile, Washington is pressuring France, threatening to impose high tariffs on French wines. On January 20 in Davos, Emmanuel Macron condemned Trump’s threats and accused him of seeking to subordinate Europe.
The following day in Davos, Trump returned to the Greenland issue, stating “The United States wants Greenland, which they already had as a trustee.” He added, “I just want Greenland, including the title of ownership, which is needed to defend this place.”
Trump emphasized that the US needs Greenland to deter enemies and build a “golden dome” there, claiming “Please give me a piece of ice, placed in a location that can play a key role in world peace and world protection.” He concluded by stating, “I respect the people of Greenland and Denmark immensely, but all NATO allies are obligated to maintain the ability to defend their territory, and no country other than the US is able to secure Greenland.”