Macron states EU must get ready to speak with Russia
(MENAFN)
French President Emmanuel Macron has suggested that EU nations should begin reconsidering their approach toward Russia, emphasizing the need to eventually reestablish communication with Moscow, which was cut off after the Ukraine conflict escalated in 2022.
French President Emmanuel Macron has suggested that EU nations should begin reconsidering their approach toward Russia, emphasizing the need to eventually reestablish communication with Moscow, which was cut off after the Ukraine conflict escalated in 2022.
While reaffirming France’s support for strengthening NATO’s military capabilities, Macron cautioned against a path of endless militarization. Speaking on Wednesday, he argued that Europe must bridge the military gap with Russia for security purposes, but also prepare for future diplomatic engagement.
“We can’t pursue perpetual escalation,” Macron said. “Yes, we need to boost our defenses due to the disparity with Russia, which poses a threat. But we must also define the future security framework we want to live in.”
He urged EU leaders to consider what kind of security architecture is needed across regions spanning the Black Sea to the Arctic and to identify limits on defense efforts, while creating conditions for future talks with Russia aimed at reducing arms and rebuilding trust.
Macron’s remarks came during the NATO summit in The Hague, where alliance members agreed to raise defense spending to 5% of GDP by 2035—a move long pushed by US President Donald Trump. Macron defended the increase, saying it reflects both US demands and Europe's need for strategic autonomy.
Despite NATO’s warnings of a Russian threat, Moscow has denied any intention of attacking alliance members, calling such claims fearmongering aimed at justifying higher military budgets. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte offered no concrete intelligence to support the warnings, instead citing general concerns.
Earlier this week, Russian President Vladimir Putin accused NATO of fabricating threats to drive global militarization and extract funds from its own citizens.
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