U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened 200% tariffs on French wine and champagne imports to compel President Emmanuel Macron to join the “Board of Peace” for Gaza oversight. French aides have indicated reluctance to participate in the UN-endorsed initiative, citing concerns over its expanded scope beyond reconstruction.
In Miami on Tuesday, Trump belittled Macron’s influence ahead of his May 2027 term end, which prevents a third consecutive presidency.
“Well, nobody wants him because he’s going to be out of office very soon,” Trump said. “So you know, that’s all right. What I’ll do is, if they feel like [being] hostile, I’ll put a 200% tariff on his wines and champagnes, and he’ll join. But he doesn’t have to join.”
The board, backed by last November’s UN Security Council resolution, monitors the Israel-Hamas ceasefire with invitations sent to leaders including Vladimir Putin, Keir Starmer, and Narendra Modi.
Trump tied this to demands for U.S. control of Greenland, dismissing Denmark’s claims since 1721 despite its 2009 self-government grant.
“I don’t think they’re going to push back too much,” he said. “We have to have it …They can’t protect it.” He added that Danish leaders were “very good people,” yet ″[Just] because the boat went there 500 years ago and then left, that doesn’t give you title to property.” The boat reference remained vague.
Recent threats include seizing the territory “whether they [European lawmakers] like it or not” and 25% tariffs on eight European nations until secured, though purchase is preferred per Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Europe eyes retaliatory measures amid rising tensions.