France to Open Consulate in Greenland... Responding to U.S. 'Annexation Threat'

"Greenland Is Not for Sale"

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot announced on January 14 (local time) that France will open a consulate in Greenland, a territory of Denmark, next month.

In an interview with RTL that day, Minister Barrot stated, "On February 6, the French consulate will open locally," adding, "This decision was made when President Emmanuel Macron visited Greenland last summer and expressed his support."

Regarding the threat of U.S. annexation of Greenland, he said, "Greenland is not for sale," emphasizing, "The Prime Minister of Greenland made this point very clearly, strongly, and calmly."

Jens-Frederik Nielsen, Prime Minister of Greenland, said at a press conference in Denmark the previous day, "One thing that is clear to everyone is that Greenland does not want to become U.S. property, does not want to be under U.S. control, and does not want to become part of the United States." He also stated that if forced to choose between the United States and Denmark, he would choose Denmark.

Minister Barrot commented on the scenario of the United States potentially using military means, saying, "This seems highly inappropriate," and added, "As a member of NATO, attacking another NATO member makes no sense and in fact goes against U.S. interests."

Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump has asserted that Greenland is essential for safeguarding U.S. security against Russia and China, and has expressed his intention to secure Greenland 'by any means necessary.' To better understand the United States' intentions, the foreign ministers of Denmark and Greenland will visit the White House on January 14 (local time) to meet with U.S. Vice President JD Vance.