France has formally voiced support for the European Union’s suspension of a major trade deal with the United States, a dramatic step triggered by rising diplomatic and trade tensions linked to U.S. pressure over Greenland.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot told lawmakers in Paris on Tuesday that France backs halting the EU-U.S. trade agreement amid concerns over U.S. tariff threats that European leaders described as “blackmail.”
The dispute stems from comments by U.S. President Donald Trump in recent days related to Greenland — an autonomous Danish territory — and threats to impose higher tariffs on European countries opposing U.S. plans.
Trade Deal Suspended
On Wednesday, the European Parliament’s trade committee decided to suspend its work to implement the trade deal struck with Washington last summer, postponing a key vote to reduce many EU import duties on American goods.
The agreement still required formal approval to take full effect. Now its future is uncertain as lawmakers push back against perceived coercive tactics.
Barrot said France remains committed to cooperation with the United States on broader issues such as security and peace, but cannot accept unacceptable trade pressure.
Wider European Reaction
The move reflects broader unease in Europe about recent U.S. tariff threats tied to Greenland, which European officials warn could damage longstanding economic and security relations. European shares rebounded after Trump suggested a framework deal on Greenland was possible, but uncertainty remains.
Analysts say the suspension signals a rare escalation in transatlantic trade disagreements, with potential consequences for both sides’ exporters and investors should tensions persist.
What’s Next
EU institutions are expected to continue debating whether to proceed with the trade agreement, introduce counter-measures or redefine relations with the U.S. if tariff threats and geopolitical disputes remain unresolved.
