Macron Pledges New European Commitments to Ukraine in New Year Address
French President Emmanuel Macron said Russia’s war against Ukraine remains the primary source of instability in Europe and urged faster progress on Europe’s own defense, alongside concrete commitments to Ukraine’s security.
The Gaze informs about it, referring to Macron's New Year’s televised address.
The French President stressed that the war has continued “with particular intensity” since Moscow launched what he described as a renewed act of aggression almost four years ago.
“The war continues to rage on European soil with particular intensity since Russia decided to carry out a new aggression against Ukraine – almost four years ago already,” he said.
Macron warned that the war reflects a broader global trend, pointing to the weakening of international norms and the resurgence of power politics.
“We are witnessing the return of empires and the undermining of the international order,” he stated, adding that Europe must respond by defending “our independence and our freedoms.”
He argued that Europe can no longer delay strengthening its defense capabilities and must move from discussion to implementation.
That acceleration, he added, will start on January 6 in Paris, when European and allied states are set to make specific pledges to protect Ukraine and to work toward a just and lasting peace on the continent.
The French president portrayed France as a pillar of stability, citing the strength of its institutions, public service, and armed forces, which he characterised as the most effective in Europe.
Macron also set out three guiding themes for the year ahead – unity, strength, and independence. He framed unity as a decisive factor in overcoming both external threats and internal divisions. “Our history teaches us that we can overcome everything, withstand anything, if we know how to remain united,” he said. “Let us never forget that our reasons for living together every day are stronger than what may divide us.”
Looking ahead to the end of his mandate, Macron said he would remain fully engaged until the final moment of his term in 2027. He also pledged to safeguard the integrity of the next presidential election, in which he is constitutionally barred from running, and to prevent any form of foreign interference.
As The Gaze previously reported, French President Emmanuel Macron announced that Paris will host a meeting of the “Coalition of the Willing” in early January.
Read also on The Gaze: NYT: What the West Is Offering Ukraine in Security Guarantees