Amanze Chinonye
France has insisted that European NATO allies are fully capable of defending their territory, including Greenland, amid renewed controversy sparked by comments from United States President Donald Trump suggesting American control of the Arctic island is a strategic necessity.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot said European allies “are fully capable of defending their territory against any threat, wherever it may come from,” underscoring Europe’s commitment to collective defence and support for Denmark’s sovereignty over Greenland.
Barrot’s remarks come after Trump reiterated his long-standing position that U.S. control of Greenland is vital to American national security, arguing that Denmark lacks the capacity to adequately protect the strategically located island. The comments have drawn swift pushback from European capitals.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelGreenland is an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark and is covered by the collective defence arrangements of North Atlantic Treaty Organization. European officials say any threat to Greenland would trigger a joint NATO response.
READ ALSO : Trump Renews Push for U.S. Control of Greenland After Tense Talks With Denmark, Allies Push Back
France has moved beyond rhetoric to demonstrate support. President Emmanuel Macron confirmed that French forces are participating in multinational NATO exercises in and around Greenland, with additional land, air and naval assets expected as part of broader Arctic security drills involving several European allies.
In a further sign of long-term engagement, Paris has announced plans to open a consulate in Greenland in early February, strengthening diplomatic and political ties with the territory.
France’s stance reflects a broader European consensus.
Earlier this month, the leaders of France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Poland, the United Kingdom and Denmark issued a joint statement affirming that Greenland’s status can only be determined by Denmark and the people of Greenland, stressing that sovereignty and territorial integrity are inviolable under international law.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has described Washington’s position as a “fundamental disagreement,” insisting that the defence of Greenland is a shared NATO responsibility and not a matter for unilateral action.
Greenland has grown in strategic importance due to its location along emerging Arctic shipping routes, proximity to Russia and North America, and its role in missile defence and early-warning systems, as well as its vast reserves of critical minerals.
European officials say the latest statements from Paris are intended to send a clear message: Europe is prepared to defend its territory, NATO unity remains intact, and any attempt to challenge Greenland’s sovereignty would face a coordinated allied response.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
