France to Open Greenland Consulate Feb. 6 as US Pressure Mounts

France will open a consulate in Greenland on February 6, stepping up its diplomatic presence in the Arctic territory amid renewed interest and pressure from the United States.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot announced the move on Wednesday, saying it reflects France’s determination to deepen its engagement in Greenland “in all dimensions.”

Speaking on RTL radio, Barrot confirmed that the consulate will be established in Nuuk, Greenland’s capital, marking a swift shift from earlier plans to merely assess potential locations.

The decision comes as tensions rise following comments by U.S. President Donald Trump, who recently reiterated that Washington must “acquire” Greenland to prevent Russian or Chinese influence. Trump has previously described ownership of the island as an “absolute necessity” for U.S. economic security.

Greenland, a self-governing territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, has repeatedly rejected such proposals. Both Greenlandic leaders and the Danish government have stressed that the island is not for sale and that its future will be determined solely by its people.

Barrot criticised Washington’s rhetoric, urging an end to what he described as political “blackmail,” and emphasized that Greenland is “a European territory under NATO protection,” adding that no justification exists for U.S. intervention.

Beyond providing consular services to the six French nationals currently registered in Greenland, the new mission is expected to support scientific research and assist French companies interested in investing in the resource-rich Arctic region.

With the move, France joins a small group of countries with a permanent diplomatic presence in Greenland, alongside the United States and Canada.