French President Emmanuel Macron has emphasized the necessity for Europe to be prepared for war to maintain peace.
In a French national television interview, Macron identified Russia under Vladimir Putin as a formidable opponent that wouldn’t cease its aggression with Ukraine, Sky News reports.
“If Russia wins this war, Europe’s credibility will be reduced to zero,” Macron stated.
He further remarked, “If war spread in Europe, Russia would be to blame. But if we decided to be weak, if we decided today that we would not respond, it would be choosing defeat already. And I don’t want that.”
Macron highlighted that the security of Europe is directly linked to the situation in Ukraine.
He stressed the importance of Europe not establishing clear boundaries, as this could be perceived as a sign of weakness by the Kremlin and motivate further invasion of Ukraine.
While he refrained from providing specifics on potential military involvement in Ukraine, Macron reiterated that the option of sending Western troops should remain open, although the current circumstances do not necessitate it.
“We’re not in that situation today,” he remarked, but added, “all these options are possible.”
Macron’s statement on Europe’s readiness for war to ensure peace is significant in light of his previous diplomatic efforts and emphasis on global cooperation. His past attempts at negotiating with Putin, despite criticism, reflect a desire to avoid war and nuclear risks. Macron has also advocated for a negotiated peace in the Russia-Ukraine war and has called for the European Union to offer security guarantees to Ukraine.
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Macron, Scholz, and Tusk to hold Ukraine talks in Berlin
Reuters: France to send long-range missiles to Ukraine, Macron to finalize security deal in Kyiv
Macron says new security architecture should give guarantees for Russia – Reuters
