Emmanuel macron on defence spending: In a speech to the French military on January 20, 2025, President Emmanuel Macron urged Europe to “wake up” and increase defense spending to reduce reliance on the United States for security. He expressed concerns about potential shifts in U.S. foreign policy under President Donald Trump, particularly regarding the war in Ukraine.
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According to The Hindu Macron questioned Europe’s preparedness if the US were to withdraw military assets from the region, asking, “What will we do in Europe tomorrow if our American ally withdraws its warships from the Mediterranean? If they send their fighter jets from the Atlantic to the Pacific?”
He emphasized the need for Europe to adapt to evolving threats and changing interests, highlighting the importance of sustained support for Ukraine.
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Macron also hinted that France might need to exceed NATO’s current defense spending target, especially if the U.S. reduces its military presence in Europe.
This call for increased European defense spending aligns with Macron’s broader vision of strategic autonomy, aiming to strengthen Europe’s security capabilities and reduce dependence on external powers.
