Brussels (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – French President Emmanuel Macron stated that Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the actions of Trump were pushing Europe to take more responsibility for its own physical and economic security.
Emmanuel Macron said Trump’s policies were one of various elements pushing the EU to become less reliant on others.
The COVID epidemic and the Russian aggression in Ukraine were moments of awakening,
Macron told reporters.
What’s happening at this very moment today in Ukraine, what’s happening also now with the choices, the declarations of the new American administration of President Trump pushes the Europeans to be more united, more active to respond on subjects of their collective security,
he expressed.
This meant boosting Europe‘s defence industry and buying more European arms, Macron also said.
French President noted this while visiting Brussels to meet other leaders of the European Union in an informal summit, reviewing relations with the US and how Europe should boost its military defence.
On February 3, 2025, leaders of Europe gathered in Brussels for an informal summit on how European defence capabilities could be strengthened as threats in the region rise, particularly from Russia. The meeting was chaired by European Council President Antonio Costa and included discussions on the enhancement of military support for Ukraine, optimisation of defence financing, and cooperation with NATO and non-EU European allies.
How does Macron propose strengthening Europe’s military?
French President Emmanuel Macron has argued for a strengthened and more united European defence system, insisting Europe needs to grow its military capability and exercise more strategic autonomy.
In his orations, for instance, to the Sorbonne in April 2024, he encouraged the development of a credible strategic concept for the defence of Europe, which might include initiatives like the European Sky Shield Initiative, as well as enhanced rapid-deployment capabilities.
Macron described Europe as becoming a “vassal” of the United States if it fails to increase its defence industries and weapons. He called for EU nations to prioritise buying military equipment produced on the continent.
