French President Emmanuel Macron sharply criticized U.S. tariff threats at the World Economic Forum in Davos, warning that Europe would not submit to economic or political intimidation tied to territorial demands over Greenland.
His remarks followed escalating pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump, who has threatened steep tariffs on European allies, including 200% levies on French wine and champagne, unless the United States is allowed to acquire Greenland.
Macron’s intervention marked a tougher tone than that adopted by several other European leaders, as tensions between Washington and Europe continue to intensify.
Speaking in Davos, Macron said Europe would not “passively accept the law of the strongest,” arguing that doing so would risk its “vassalization.”
He said Europe preferred cooperation grounded in law and sovereignty, declaring, “We do prefer respect to bullies.”
Macron criticized what he described as an “endless accumulation” of U.S. tariffs, calling them unacceptable when used as leverage against territorial sovereignty.
He also confirmed that France had sent soldiers to Greenland as part of Operation Arctic Endurance, supporting Denmark alongside Germany and Norway, while stressing the move was not intended as a provocation.
Macron said it was “crazy” that Europe could be pushed toward deploying its Anti-Coercion Instrument for the first time.
European Union leaders are set to meet in Brussels for an emergency summit on Greenland as they weigh possible countermeasures.
Tariffs on €93 billion worth of U.S. goods, previously suspended, could be reinstated as early as February.
Macron has urged greater European unity, warning that without collective governance, cooperation could give way to destabilizing competition.
Relations have further soured after Trump published private messages from Macron questioning U.S. actions on Greenland and proposing a broader international dialogue.
Macron confirmed he would not meet Trump in Davos, saying he would not alter his long-planned schedule, even as the dispute continues to ripple through diplomatic and economic channels.