Trump Threatens 200% Tariff on French Wine Amid Rift With Macron Over ‘Board of Peace’

U.S. President Donald Trump on Tuesday threatened to impose tariffs of up to 200% on French wines and champagne, escalating tensions with France after reports that President Emmanuel Macron was unwilling to join a newly formed international body overseeing the Gaza ceasefire.

Speaking to reporters in Miami, Trump downplayed Macron’s political influence and said trade penalties could be used as leverage if France adopted what he described as a hostile stance. He suggested that participation in the peace initiative was optional, but warned that refusal could carry economic consequences. Macron’s current term runs until May 2027, and under French law he is barred from seeking a third term.

The dispute centers on the so-called Board of Peace, a global body endorsed by the United Nations Security Council in November to oversee the Israel–Hamas ceasefire. Invitations have reportedly been extended to several world leaders, including Russia’s Vladimir Putin, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Macron has not publicly confirmed whether France will take part.

Trump used the same remarks to reiterate his long-standing position on Greenland, arguing that U.S. control of the territory is necessary for global and regional security. He dismissed the likelihood of significant resistance from Europe and questioned Denmark’s historical claims over the island, suggesting that a long-standing presence did not amount to permanent ownership.

Greenland has been linked to Denmark since the early 18th century and became part of the Danish state in 1953. In 2009, Denmark granted the territory broad self-government, retaining authority over foreign policy and defense. Trump has previously said the U.S. could take control of Greenland “whether Europe likes it or not,” and has not ruled out the use of military force, although Secretary of State Marco Rubio has indicated the administration would prefer a negotiated purchase.

The tariff threat against France adds to growing trade tensions between the U.S. and Europe. Trump has also warned of duties of up to 25% on goods from several European countries unless Washington gains control over Greenland. European governments are reportedly considering retaliatory tariffs and broader economic countermeasures, raising the risk of a wider transatlantic trade dispute if the threats are carried out.