03.02.2025 16:17
French President Emmanuel Macron stated that the European Union needs to gain strategic autonomy by investing in continent-based defense equipment. Macron's remark, "If its commercial interests are attacked, Europe will need to ensure that it is respected," was interpreted as a threat.
French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized that the European Union (EU) needs to gain its "strategic autonomy" by investing in continentally sourced defense equipment. Macron made statements to the press before the EU's first defense summit meeting held in Brussels, the capital of Belgium.
MACRON THREATENED THE USA
Emmanuel Macron pointed out that gaining strategic autonomy for Europe has become more important due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Russia's attacks on Ukraine, and the new rhetoric of the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump. Macron stated that Trump's remarks about potentially increasing tariffs on the EU have directed Europe to be "stronger and more united" in defense and economy. He expressed that "if commercial interests are attacked, Europe will need to ensure that it is respected" and emphasized the need for strategic autonomy for the Union in the field of defense.
MACRON STRESSED AUTONOMY
French President Macron noted that it is quite "clear" that investments in the defense industry should be made with a "European reference" and that the EU will be more autonomous by investing in continentally sourced defense equipment. Leaders of the 27 EU member countries gathered at the Egmont Palace in Brussels, under the leadership of EU Council President Antonio Costa, to discuss the future of Europe's defense.
TRUMP OFTEN EMPHASIZES EUROPEAN SELF-DEFENSE
Previously, French President Emmanuel Macron had frequently called for stepping out of U.S. protection and strengthening continental defense. Most recently, in his speech at the European Political Community (EPC) summit last November, he stated that Europeans should not hand over their security to Americans forever.