France is openly supporting a pause on a major trade deal between the European Union and the United States. The move comes as tensions rise over Greenland.
French Foreign Minister Jean Noel Barrot confirmed the stance while speaking in parliament on Tuesday. He made it clear that France is unhappy with how trade pressure is being used.
The conflict centers on President Donald Trump. He has threatened to impose new tariffs on several European countries. The warning comes with a condition. Trump wants control over Greenland.
Barrot did not hold back. He said tariffs are being used as a form of blackmail. According to him, these demands are not justified. He also stressed that the European Commission has strong tools to respond if needed.
Right now, the European Parliament is reviewing whether to suspend the EU’s side of a trade agreement reached with the US last summer. This review is directly linked to Trump’s Greenland threats. If approved, the deal could be put on hold.
France believes a strong response is necessary. Officials see the situation as a test of Europe’s unity and sovereignty.
Barrot also touched on other global issues. He said France supports Trump’s peace plan for Gaza. However, France strongly opposes any move to replace the United Nations with a new organization.
Overall, France is signaling it will not accept trade pressure tied to territorial demands. And it is urging the EU to take a firm stand.