Macron escalates support for Ukraine, warns of Europe's peril

Emmanuel Macron has recently addressed the issue of military aid for Ukraine. In a conversation with "The Economist," the French President highlighted the potential collapse of the front line that Russia is pressing on. He noted that a request for help from Kyiv could prompt the West to consider direct intervention. Furthermore, Macron discussed the risk this situation poses to several countries.

However, Macron acknowledged that Kyiv has yet to request such assistance. He pointed out that France had previously sent troops to aid African nations in the Sahel region upon their leaders' requests.

The French leader reiterated his stance from late February, which had surprised many of France's allies. After meeting with European heads of state and government, Macron argued that defeating Russia is crucial for Europe's security. He emphasized that the option of deploying Western ground troops to Ukraine in the future should not be dismissed.

Amidst Russia's expansionist actions, Macron believes Europe's capability to halt further aggression depends on avoiding setting definitive red lines. In an interview with "The Economist," he stated there is no question of sidelining NATO. Yet, he also stressed the importance of Europe preparing to defend itself without always relying on the USA. Macron is advocating for a profound discussion on security within the continent that extends beyond the EU's institutional framework and includes non-EU European nations.

Macron has warned, "If Russia wins in Ukraine, Europe will not be safe," and he predicts that Russia's aggression will not stop there. He listed Moldova, Romania, Poland, and Lithuania as at-risk countries.

In the same interview, the French president announced new arms shipments to Ukraine before summer. He reminded that in February, he had signed a bilateral security agreement with Ukraine's President, Volodymyr Zelensky, which includes military aid worth up to 3 billion euros for Kyiv in 2024.

Reiterating his warning from a recent speech at the Sorbonne, Macron voiced concerns about Europe's future as a haven of safety, prosperity, and liberal democracy, cautioning that threats to these values might materialize faster than anticipated.

"The Economist" highlighted a shift in Macron's stance, noting his transition from opposing Russia's "humiliation" to becoming one of the West's leading "hawks."

Macron also raised concerns about Europe lagging in advanced technology sectors. He believes this gap can be narrowed through public investment and deregulation. He highlighted the importance of China's role on the global stage ahead of Chinese leader Xi Jinping's visit to France. Macron aims to engage China in the battle against climate change and urge it to pressure Russia regarding the invasion of Ukraine. Additionally, he plans to protect European producers, especially against the influx of Chinese electric vehicles.