“Nothing justifies the pressure” from the US on Denmark regarding Greenland, said French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot, as US President Donald Trump seeks to annex the island.
“Europe’s borders are non-negotiable, and even more so the territorial integrity of NATO countries,” Barrot emphasized.
Tensions have risen between the US and Denmark following a visit by US Vice President J.D. Vance on Friday to the American military base in Greenland.
Trump’s right-hand man sharply criticized Denmark’s alleged inaction in the territory, accusing it of “not investing enough in the security of this incredible and magnificent land.”
The US pressure on Denmark “is unjustified and unnecessary, especially regarding security, because people tend to forget that the US once had up to 17 military bases in Greenland,” said Jean-Noël Barrot.
“Now they have only one, but nothing prevents them, in dialogue with Danish authorities, from increasing their level of commitment to Greenland,” he added.
He also highlighted that “Denmark has been exemplary in announcing an increase in its military ambitions in the region.”
The French minister reminded that he signed a “strategic partnership” agreement with his Danish counterpart on Tuesday, reaffirming their commitment to Denmark’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. This agreement will strengthen their relationship, particularly in defense.
Denmark buys French Mistral missiles and Finnish armored vehicles
The Élysée Palace announced on Tuesday evening that France will deliver several hundred Mistral 3 surface-to-air missiles to Denmark as part of an agreement reached the same day.
Denmark, which recently allocated nearly 7 billion euros to its defense, also announced the purchase of 130 Finnish Patria armored personnel carriers for 1.9 billion kroner (254 million euros), with some deliveries starting this year, according to the Danish Ministry of Defense.
The framework agreement signed in Paris between the European missile manufacturer MBDA and Danish defense authorities covers the “supply of 250 to 1,000 Mistral 3 missiles,” the Élysée stated. No financial details of the contract were disclosed.
Denmark, one of Ukraine’s strongest supporters, has acknowledged a critical need for air defense systems.
“We want to build a more resilient and stronger Europe for the future,” said King Frederik X during the French-Danish forum in Paris. “We stand united in our commitment to restoring peace on the continent,” he added.
The two countries also signed a strategic partnership, strengthening their joint commitments in defense, climate, and health.
“When headwinds blow in Denmark, France is here,” said President Emmanuel Macron. “Every time times are tough, we stand side by side,” he added.
“The close cooperation with France is absolutely essential in times of war in Europe and in an ever-changing security situation,” said Danish Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen. “Strengthening the European defense industry is crucial to the success of the ongoing rearmament in Europe,” he stressed.
Ask me anything
Explore related questions