France will open a consulate in Greenland on February 6, Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said. The move was planned last year but comes amid rising geopolitical tensions. It follows U.S. President Donald Trump’s renewed push over the Arctic territory.
Barrot said the decision reflects France’s long-term diplomatic strategy. He stressed that Greenland is an autonomous territory under Danish sovereignty. France aims to strengthen its presence in the Arctic region.
Read more: Trump says US will take Greenland ‘one way or the other
Speaking on RTL radio, Barrot criticized U.S. pressure on Greenland. He said Washington must stop blackmailing the territory. He also rejected any suggestion of U.S. control over Greenland.
Barrot warned that threats against Denmark would be unacceptable. He noted that Denmark is a fellow NATO member. Such actions, he said, would contradict U.S. strategic interests.
Read more: Trump says US needs to own Greenland to deter Russia, China
Greenland has gained global attention due to its strategic Arctic location. Major powers are increasingly focused on the region’s security and resources. France says diplomacy, not pressure, must guide Arctic relations.