Russia-Ukraine war: ‘mortal’ Europe needs stronger defence, says French president – as it happened

French president Emmanuel Macron highlights the need for a stronger defense in Europe

In a recent speech, French president Emmanuel Macron raised concerns about the existential threat posed to Europe by Russian aggression. He called for a “credible” defense strategy that is less reliant on the United States, as reported by Agence France-Presse.

Macron described Russia’s behavior following its invasion of Ukraine as “uninhibited” and expressed uncertainty about Moscow’s “limits.”

During his speech, Macron also criticized the United States and China for disregarding global trade rules. He urged the European Union to reconsider its trade policy in response.

“We must recognize that our Europe is mortal and it can perish,” Macron stated. “Its survival depends solely on our choices.” He warned that Europe is ill-prepared to face the risks of a changing world where “the rules of the game have changed.”

Macron emphasized the risk of Europe’s decline and highlighted the continent’s “encirclement” by other regional powers. He called for a more ambitious and powerful Europe that is respected and ensures its own security, regaining its strategic autonomy.

According to AFP, Macron emphasized the need for Europe to be a master of its own destiny, reducing its dependence on Moscow for energy and Washington for security.

Macron stated that the primary condition for European security is preventing Russia from succeeding in its aggression against Ukraine. He stressed the importance of developing a credible European defense strategy and emphasized that Europe should not be subservient to the United States.

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