French President Emmanuel Macron said on Tuesday that Europe would not give in to intimidation or bullying. He sharply criticised US President Donald Trump over threats to impose steep tariffs unless Europe allows the United States to take control of Greenland.
While several European leaders have adopted a cautious tone to prevent the transatlantic dispute from escalating, Macron delivered one of the strongest responses so far. It happened during his address at the World Economic Forum in Davos.
“France and Europe will not passively accept the law of the strongest,” Macron said, warning that submission would lead to Europe’s “vassalisation.” He stressed that Europe would continue to defend territorial sovereignty and the rule of law. Even as the global order shifts toward what he described as a world with fewer rules, Europe will stand firm.
Macron said Europe could respond with strong countermeasures, including trade sanctions, if necessary. He described Washington’s growing use of tariffs as “fundamentally unacceptable,” especially when employed as leverage against territorial sovereignty.
Europe Weighs Response as Tensions Rise
Trump has threatened to impose sweeping tariffs on several European allies, including France, starting on February 1, unless the US is allowed to acquire Greenland. Notably, major EU states have condemned the move as political blackmail.
French President Macron says EU “should not hesitate” to use anti-coercion mechanism in face of Greenland tariff threats, and adds that NATO military alliance is now “weakened institution” in context of US President Trump’s aim to take over Greenland, semi-autonomous Danish… pic.twitter.com/k55mqWzGmn
— TRT World Now (@TRTWorldNow) January 20, 2026European Union leaders agreed over the weekend to hold an emergency summit in Brussels on Thursday to discuss Greenland and the broader fallout. Meanwhile, tariffs on €93 billion worth of US goods, previously suspended after a trade deal last summer, could automatically take effect on February 6.
Macron has also urged the European Union to consider deploying its Anti-Coercion Instrument, often referred to as the “trade bazooka.” This mechanism could restrict US access to public tenders or limit trade in services such as technology platforms. Macron said it was “crazy” that relations had deteriorated to the point where such tools were being discussed.
Relations between Washington and Europe have worsened significantly over Trump’s push to wrest sovereignty over Greenland from fellow NATO member Denmark. Consequently, the dispute has unsettled European industry and sent shockwaves through financial markets.
Tensions have also flared over France’s refusal to join Trump’s proposed “Board of Peace,” a new international organisation he would lead. Paris has raised concerns that such a body could undermine the United Nations’ role.
BREAKING: Donald Trump says “world peace is at stake” over Greenland, as he announces plan to impose tariffs on the UK and other European countries unless a deal is struck for the US to purchase Greenland.
Sky’s @amandaakass reports.https://t.co/4bosrQaliM
📺 Sky 501 pic.twitter.com/pzKHhGYuAu
— Sky News (@SkyNews) January 17, 2026Asked about Macron’s stance, Trump said he could impose a 200 per cent tariff on French wine and champagne. He added that Macron would then comply, “but he doesn’t have to join.”
Private Messages and Davos Snub
Hours later, Trump published a screenshot on Truth Social showing a private exchange with Macron. In the messages, which a source close to the French president said were authentic, Macron questioned Trump’s decision to pursue a sale of Greenland. He also suggested hosting a G7 meeting that could include Russia. Neither side disclosed when the exchange took place.
Macron confirmed he had no plans to extend his stay in Davos to meet Trump, who is due to arrive on Wednesday. Additionally, he said his departure schedule had been set long ago.
Macron, who has been president since 2017 and will leave office in mid-2027, has had a fluctuating relationship with Trump, alternating between engagement and firm rhetoric. Furthermore, French officials have defended his direct approach, noting that the two leaders often speak outside formal diplomatic channels.
Allies of Macron say his outspoken stance has made France a target. “By leading the resistance, France becomes a target,” said Pieyre-Alexandre Langlade, a lawmaker from Macron’s camp.
