U.S. President Donald Trump signaled the possibility of sharply increasing tariffs on French wines and champagne, with a rate of 200%, after indications that French President Emmanuel Macron would not join the U.S.-proposed “Board of Peace” addressing the Gaza conflict.
The Board of Peace, introduced last September by President Trump as part of efforts to resolve the Gaza conflict, has received endorsement from the United Nations Security Council. Recent invitations reveal that the board’s planned scope goes beyond Gaza, with a mission addressing global disputes.
According to a draft charter circulated to around 60 countries, including Russia, the U.K., and India, member states would be required to provide a financial contribution of $1 billion if they wish to extend their board membership past three years, based on documents reviewed by Reuters.
Tensions have escalated on other fronts as Trump has renewed his commitment to bring Greenland under U.S. control, maintaining that European leaders are not likely to offer significant resistance. The president insisted that taking control of the territory is necessary for global security.
Trump also warned that the U.S. could introduce tariffs as high as 25% on eight European countries, including the U.K., until control over Greenland is obtained. While the use of force has not been entirely dismissed, Secretary of State Marco Rubio has reportedly stated a preference for pursuing Greenland through a purchase agreement.
European governments, in turn, are reportedly considering their own measures in response, including new tariffs targeting U.S. products as well as other economic counteractions.
