French President Emmanuel Macron has issued a stark warning against the resurgence of a dangerous "might is right" philosophy in global affairs, while pointedly criticising former US President Donald Trump's threat to invade Greenland. Macron's strong remarks, made on January 9, 2026, underscore a deepening diplomatic rift with ally United States and a call for a fundamental overhaul of international governance.
A Firm Stand Against Aggression
In a significant address, President Macron explicitly denounced threats of aggression and neo-colonial overreach, directly referencing the controversy surrounding Greenland. He firmly backed both Greenland and its sovereign ruler, Denmark, against any potential territorial claims. Macron emphasised that the principles of sovereignty and international law, not raw power politics, must be the foundation of the world order. His comments come at a time when France and the US are publicly at odds over Trump's provocative statements regarding the Arctic territory.
The Urgent Need for New Partnerships
Moving beyond criticism, the French leader presented a constructive path forward. He called for the establishment of "new partnerships" to address the evolving challenges of the 21st century. Macron argued that the existing frameworks of international governance are outdated and require urgent reform to prevent a slide into an era where strength alone dictates outcomes. This vision positions France as a advocate for a multilateral system based on rules and cooperation, standing in contrast to unilateral actions.
Global Implications and the Road Ahead
The public disagreement between Paris and Washington over Greenland signals a potential shift in traditional Atlantic alliances. Macron's speech is seen as a direct challenge to the brand of politics championed by Donald Trump, which often prioritises national interest over collective security pacts. By championing sovereignty and condemning invasion threats, Macron is seeking to rally like-minded nations around a renewed commitment to diplomatic norms. The incident highlights the fragile state of global diplomacy and sets the stage for continued debates on how to manage relations between major powers in a turbulent world.
