Macron vows to bolster France's nuclear stance for Europe's defense
The French president, Emmanuel Macron, announced the potential use of French nuclear weapons to defend Europe against Russia. In a decisive speech, he emphasised that the future of Europe should not be determined in Moscow or Washington and that the responsibility for the continent's security rests with the Europeans themselves.
Macron stated that France is prepared to enhance its nuclear capabilities to protect Europe from Russian aggression.
As the only European Union country with nuclear weapons, France can shield the continent with its "nuclear umbrella." However, the decision to use such weapons will remain solely in the hands of the President of France.
As The Sun noted, the French leader stressed that Europe cannot rely solely on the United States' support, especially given the waning trust in the USA's actions within NATO.
I want to believe that the U.S. will stay by our side, but we have to be ready if they don't - said Macron, but he also called on Europe to prepare for the possibility of lacking that support.
Macron emphasised that Russia must be seen as a constant threat regardless of developments in Ukraine. "Who can believe that today's Russia will stop at Ukraine?" the President asked rhetorically. He highlighted the need to increase investments in arms and equipment to effectively "defend" against potential future threats.
Important meeting in Paris
The French president also announced that a meeting of European chiefs of staff will be convened next week in Paris to develop a plan to "ensure future peace in Ukraine." On Thursday, in Brussels, an EU leaders' summit will discuss the defence strategies of individual countries in the context of restoring peace in Ukraine.
Macron stressed that the future of Europe does not have to be decided in Washington or Moscow, adding that it would be "unwise to remain a spectator in this dangerous world." He noted that Russia has already turned the war in Ukraine into a "global conflict" and plans to strengthen its armed forces by 2030 significantly.
The French president concluded that while this generation may not experience the benefits of peace, the responsibility lies with us to ensure that future generations do. He emphasized the need to face the future together.
Let us remember that both the USA and Ukraine face the challenge of reaching a common ground for talks with Russia, which could contribute to ending the ongoing conflict.
Cooperation on rare earth minerals might be one aspect of building a new agreement between the countries.
