French President Emmanuel Macron has strongly criticised the United States’ growing use of trade tariffs, calling the approach unacceptable, especially when linked to territorial issues.
Speaking at a gathering of global leaders in Davos, Macron said the steady introduction of new tariffs by Washington was worrying and crossed a red line when used to pressure other countries over sovereignty. His remarks came just days after former US president Donald Trump announced fresh tariff threats against nations opposing his plan to bring Greenland under US control.
Trump, who has repeatedly spoken about acquiring the Arctic territory, insisted there would be no reversal of his position.
He argued that Greenland was essential to both American and global security interests, framing the issue as a strategic necessity rather than a diplomatic choice.
The dispute escalated online after Trump shared what he claimed were private messages from Macron, in which the French leader questioned Washington’s intentions over Greenland.
Trump also posted a message said to be from NATO’s secretary general, alongside computer-generated images showing himself planting the American flag on the island.
Macron’s comments highlight rising tensions between European leaders and Washington over trade and foreign policy, particularly as economic measures are increasingly tied to geopolitical ambitions.
The episode adds to broader concerns among allies about the use of tariffs as a political weapon rather than a tool of economic policy.
credit: BBC