France to Discuss Nuclear Deterrence with European Allies
French President Emmanuel Macron has announced plans to discuss France’s nuclear deterrence strategy with European allies during a security meeting on Thursday.
In a televised address, Macron emphasized the growing need for Europe to reinforce its military capabilities and stand firmly in support of Ukraine.
“Russia has become, today and for a long time, a threat to France and to Europe,” he warned.
Speaking ahead of a crucial summit in Brussels, Macron questioned whether Russian President Vladimir Putin would stop at Ukraine, as Moscow continues to expand its military operations.
Europe Must Prepare for Geopolitical Shifts
Macron pointed to shifting U.S. policies, highlighting Washington’s decreasing support for Ukraine and the uncertainty surrounding its future commitments.
“The United States of America, our ally, has changed its position on this war, supporting Ukraine less,” he stated.
“We are entering a new era,” he added, stressing the importance of European self-reliance in security matters.
Condemning Russian aggression, Macron accused the Kremlin of violating European borders, interfering in elections, and launching cyberattacks on hospitals.
“Russia, under President Putin, is testing our limits,” he stated, referencing ongoing disinformation campaigns and other destabilizing actions.
Macron Advocates for European Peacekeeping and Nuclear Security
Macron cautioned that Europe must be ready for a future in which the U.S. is not a guaranteed security partner.
“I want to believe that the U.S. will stand by our side, but we have to be ready if that is not the case,” he said.
He stressed that peace in Ukraine must not come at any cost, asserting that Russia cannot be trusted to uphold a ceasefire.
To ensure long-term stability, Macron proposed the deployment of European peacekeeping forces to deter future Russian incursions.
He also underscored France’s nuclear deterrence capabilities, suggesting the possibility of extending protection to European allies.
“I have decided to open the strategic debate on protecting our European continent allies through our deterrence,” he declared.
EU Leaders to Discuss Security Measures in Brussels
EU leaders will address nuclear deterrence, continued support for Ukraine, and European defense strategies during Thursday’s summit in Brussels.
Meanwhile, French officials welcomed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s diplomatic outreach to the U.S., as he expressed openness to negotiating peace.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Macron are spearheading calls for a post-war peacekeeping force to prevent another Russian attack if a truce is reached.
For further updates on European security discussions, visit EuroNews24.