U.S. President Donald Trump posted a private message from French President Emmanuel Macron and threatened 200% tariffs on French wine and champagne. Trump criticized Macron for opposing U.S. efforts to acquire Greenland and said France must join his proposed Board of Peace. The dispute has escalated tensions between the U.S. and European allies ahead of the World Economic Forum.
Trump’s post on Truth Social showed Macron questioning U.S. actions in Greenland while agreeing on Syria and Iran. Trump labeled Macron’s resistance as obstruction and said France could join “but does not have to.” Macron has taken a firm stance to defend Denmark and the EU, signaling strong opposition to U.S. pressure.
Read more: Macron questions Trump’s Greenland moves
European officials warned that Trump’s threats could destabilize NATO. The EU plans an emergency summit in Brussels to discuss Greenland and consider countermeasures. France is leading the bloc’s resistance, and lawmakers are visiting Greenland to show solidarity with Denmark.
Trump’s tariffs would affect several European allies and come into effect from February 1. EU leaders are preparing retaliatory tariffs worth 93 billion euros. The Anti-Coercion Instrument may also be activated to restrict U.S. access to European public tenders and services.
Read more: European political order ‘in danger’, France warns
Macron, who will leave office in 2027, has often engaged Trump through direct calls and texts. Despite diplomatic friction, French officials continue to advocate dialogue. Analysts say the standoff highlights rising tensions between U.S. unilateral moves and European collective defense policies.