U.S. President-elect Donald Trump is facing strong opposition from European leaders over his controversial comments regarding Greenland. Both German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot have issued stern warnings after Trump refused to rule out the use of military force to acquire the autonomous territory.

Chancellor Scholz emphasized the importance of respecting sovereign borders, particularly in Europe, while Barrot echoed concerns over the potential destabilizing effects such rhetoric could have on international relations. The European response reflects growing unease over Trump’s provocative stance on global territorial issues.

Trump has long expressed interest in purchasing Greenland, seeing the territory as vital for U.S. military and economic interests. However, both Denmark, which oversees Greenland, and Greenland’s local leaders have firmly rejected the idea, stating that any decisions regarding the territory would need to be made by its inhabitants, not external powers.

The debate underscores a tense moment in global geopolitics, with European leaders calling for a reaffirmation of territorial integrity and respect for national sovereignty. The backlash is likely to have lasting implications for U.S.-European relations in the coming years.