Paris, January 18, 2026 – The Europe Today: French President Emmanuel Macron convened an urgent Emergency Defence Council meeting at the Élysée Palace on Thursday to address escalating international challenges, including tensions over Greenland and developments linked to Iran.
The high‑level session brought together senior ministers and military officials to evaluate France’s strategic position amid mounting geopolitical pressures. Macron’s remarks and subsequent actions underscore Paris’s intent to navigate rising global uncertainties with both diplomatic engagement and defence preparedness.
Focus on Greenland and Transatlantic Tensions
A central issue at the defence meeting was the situation surrounding Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark that has become a focal point of heightened strategic contestation. Discussions were held against the backdrop of recent U.S. tariff threats linked to Greenland—a move Paris has publicly condemned.
Following the council, President Macron reiterated France’s firm stance against coercive measures, stating that “no amount of intimidation will change EU nations’ course on Greenland.” His comments came in response to U.S. threats of tariffs on European countries over their opposition to prospective U.S. claims on the Arctic territory.
Macron has emphasized France’s commitment to uphold sovereignty and international law, signalling that European nations will adopt a united and coordinated response should such tariff measures be implemented.
Iran on the Agenda
In addition to the Arctic issue, the emergency council addressed concerns related to Iran. While details from the France24 article were limited, broader diplomatic context indicates that Macron and French defence officials are monitoring evolving developments in Iran’s internal and regional dynamics, particularly with respect to security and nuclear proliferation concerns.
France has previously urged diplomatic solutions and reaffirmed its stance on preventing escalation in the Middle East, calling for peaceful resolution and adherence to international frameworks.
Domestic Military Posture and Budget Priorities
In the wake of the emergency meeting, Macron visited a military base in the south of France, where he delivered a speech underscoring the tense global geopolitical environment and announced intentions to increase the French army’s operational readiness and budgetary support.
The president’s remarks reflect Paris’s determination to bolster defence capabilities as part of wider European strategic coordination amid shifting global security landscapes.
