Trump Shares Private Message from Macron Regarding Greenland Activities
US President Donald Trump has made public a private message allegedly sent by French President Emmanuel Macron via the social media platform Truth Social, intensifying the ongoing diplomatic tensions between the two leaders. The released message reportedly addressed concerns surrounding US activities in Greenland and proposed a summit involving several international stakeholders.
According to official sources, Macron's message touched upon collaborative efforts between France and the United States regarding the situation in Syria and potential diplomatic initiatives related to Iran. Macron also questioned the US approach in Greenland, expressing uncertainty about Trump's intentions in the Arctic region. The message included an offer to arrange a G7 meeting in Paris, with possible participation from representatives of Ukraine, Denmark, Syria, and Russia. Macron further suggested a bilateral dinner with Trump ahead of the US president's planned return to the United States.
The Élysée Palace has confirmed the authenticity of the message, though it was clarified that Macron has since put aside his initial plans for a G7 gathering. French officials reiterated that no such meeting is currently scheduled. Macron, speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, emphasized France's commitment to respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations. He stressed that France's NATO engagement and support for Arctic security remain unchanged, highlighting the importance of adhering to international law in an increasingly unstable global environment.
Tensions between Trump and Macron have become more pronounced in recent months, particularly after the US administration extended invitations to approximately 60 world leaders for a proposed 'Peace Council.' The council is intended to oversee the transitional government in the conflict-affected Gaza Strip, but participation requires a significant financial commitment. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot publicly declined the US invitation, citing concerns that the council's framework would go beyond the United Nations-backed peace plan and potentially create a parallel international body.
Trump responded to France's reluctance by threatening to impose substantial tariffs on French wine and champagne exports to the United States. He suggested that these measures would pressure France to join the US-led initiative, though he downplayed the importance of Macron's participation, referencing the French president's uncertain political future.
The disagreement over Greenland has drawn additional attention, with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov likening US activities in the Arctic to past territorial annexations. French officials have maintained that any actions in Greenland must respect the sovereignty of the region and international norms.
The diplomatic exchange was further complicated by the circulation of a documentary clip in France, reportedly featuring a private telephone conversation between Trump and Macron. The conversation, recorded during Macron's visit to Kyiv, included references to recent ceasefire negotiations and the awarding of a Nobel Prize for diplomatic achievements. This incident has raised questions about transparency and privacy in international communications.
Overall, the public disclosure of Macron's private message has amplified the already tense relationship between the US and France. The dispute encompasses broader geopolitical issues, including Arctic policy, Middle Eastern stability, and the structure of international diplomatic forums. Both countries continue to assert their positions, with the French government reiterating its dedication to established international agreements and the US administration pushing for new multilateral initiatives.