Macron Rejects Russia as Mediator in Israel-Iran Crisis, Warns Against U.S. Greenland Threats

French President Emmanuel Macron, speaking during a visit to Greenland, firmly rejected the idea of Russia mediating the escalating crisis between Israel and Iran. His remarks followed U.S. President Donald Trump’s suggestion that Russian President Vladimir Putin could serve as a neutral mediator. Macron dismissed the notion, citing Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine and repeated violations of the UN Charter as clear disqualifiers for any diplomatic role.

"I do not believe that Russia, currently engaged in a high-intensity conflict and disregarding international norms, can serve as a credible mediator," Macron stated. He also clarified that France had no role in Israel’s recent military actions against Iran.

Macron's trip to Greenland—his first—comes ahead of the G7 summit in Canada. The French leader voiced strong support for the Arctic island, a self-governing territory of Denmark, amid Trump’s controversial ambitions to annex it due to its mineral wealth and strategic Arctic location. Trump has not ruled out the use of force, and Vice President JD Vance visited a U.S. base in Greenland earlier this year.

During a joint press conference with Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen and Greenland’s Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen, Macron warned against "predatory ambition" and emphasized European unity. "Greenland is not to be sold or taken," he said, urging cooperation over confrontation.

An IFOP poll revealed that 77% of French citizens and 56% of Americans oppose U.S. annexation plans. Notably, 43% of French respondents support using military force to defend Greenland. In response to U.S. threats, Denmark has strengthened defense ties with France, including missile purchases.

Macron concluded by expressing confidence that the U.S., as a NATO ally, would not act aggressively against European partners.