France’s foreign minister, Jean-Noel Barrot, fired back at U.S. President-elect Donald Trump on Wednesday, asserting that the European Union wouldn’t tolerate any perceived attacks on its borders.
Barrot’s comments came in response to Trump’s refusal to rule out military or economic action to acquire Greenland or even the Panama Canal, sparking outrage among Europe’s elite.
“There is obviously no question that the European Union would let other nations of the world attack its sovereign borders, whoever they are,” Barrot said confidently on France Inter radio. He went on to boast, “We are a strong continent.” Yet, his defensive tone betrayed a deeper insecurity about Europe’s ability to handle bold American moves under Trump’s leadership.
Trump’s remarks, part of his broader vision for an assertive U.S. agenda, have rattled the EU just weeks before his January 20 inauguration. Unsurprisingly, Barrot dismissed the idea of an invasion, saying, “If you’re asking me whether I think the United States will invade Greenland, my answer is no.” However, he didn’t hesitate to paint a grim picture of global politics, adding, “Have we entered into a period of time when it is survival of the fittest? Then my answer is yes.”
While Barrot tried to rally the EU by urging it to “wake up and strengthen,” his comments felt more like a desperate plea than a show of strength. Instead of focusing on shoring up their crumbling unity, European leaders seem fixated on Trump’s every word, as if his ambitious rhetoric alone poses a threat.
Trump’s willingness to entertain ideas that push boundaries highlights a bold strategy—one that puts American interests first and dares others to keep up. Meanwhile, the EU’s defensive posture and reliance on lofty proclamations reveal its vulnerability. Whether it’s Greenland or global influence, Trump’s unapologetic approach forces the EU to face a stark reality: their days of coasting on outdated notions of power may be numbered.
