EU defends sovereignty as Trump eyes Greenland
The European Union will not accept attacks on its borders, stated Jean-Noel Barrot, the French Foreign Minister, in response to Donald Trump's comments about Greenland.
In an interview with France Inter radio, the European Union will not accept attacks on its borders, declared Jean-Noel Barrot, the French Minister of Foreign Affairs. His statement was a reaction to the remarks made by US President-elect Donald Trump concerning Greenland. Trump claimed that the United States needs this island for national security, questioning Denmark's rights to Greenland. The island has been part of the Kingdom of Denmark for 600 years and has enjoyed broad autonomy since 1979.
There is obviously no question that the European Union would let other nations of the world attack its sovereign borders, whoever they are. We are a strong continent, added Barrot.
Donald Trump sparked controversy by expressing a desire for the USA to purchase Greenland. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen firmly rejected this proposal, emphasizing that the island is not for sale.
Although the USA's aspirations regarding Greenland may seem unrealistic, Trump has repeatedly pointed out the potential benefits of controlling this region. Greenland, due to its location and resources, is an important point on the map of strategic international interests.
Barrot spoke on Elon Musk's actions
Minister Barrot also addressed the actions of Elon Musk, who intervened in EU politics. The head of the French Foreign Ministry emphasised that the European Commission should apply existing regulations more rigorously.
If the European Commission does not know how to protect us against this interference or these threats of interference then it must give member states, including France, the ability to protect itself, remarked Barrot.
Elon Musk, through his social media platform X, criticised European leaders, including German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, and supported the far-right party Alternative for Germany (AfD). Barrot noted that such actions could lead to the formation of new political alliances, which is concerning. When you are part of a government or aspire to take part in it, your opinions have a rather special value, emphasised the minister.
