EU-US tensions over Greenland and tech are far from over, says Macron

French President Emmanuel Macron has acknowledged that tensions between the European Union and the United States over issues related to Greenland and technology remain unresolved. Speaking amid ongoing diplomatic challenges, Macron highlighted that disagreements persist despite efforts to manage transatlantic relations. The disputes underscore broader strategic and economic frictions between the two allies. The tensions over Greenland stem from the US’s strategic interest in the Arctic region, particularly following Washington’s 2019 attempt to purchase Greenland from Denmark, which sparked unease in Europe. This episode highlighted competing geopolitical priorities in the Arctic, where climate change and resource access are intensifying rivalries. Meanwhile, disagreements over technology involve concerns about digital sovereignty, data privacy, and the dominance of American tech companies in European markets, fueling debates about regulation and security. Macron’s comments reflect a broader context of evolving EU-US relations, where cooperation on global challenges such as climate change and security coexists with competition in economic and technological domains. The French president’s remarks suggest that while dialogue continues, fundamental differences remain, requiring sustained diplomatic engagement. These issues are significant as they affect not only bilateral ties but also the EU’s strategic autonomy and its role on the global stage. The ongoing tensions highlight the complexity of balancing cooperation and competition between long-standing allies. As the EU seeks to assert greater control over its technological infrastructure and safeguard its interests in sensitive regions like the Arctic, managing relations with the US will remain a delicate task. Macron’s acknowledgment signals that despite shared values, the path to alignment on these critical issues is likely to be protracted and challenging.