French President Emmanuel Macron urged European nations to boost their military capabilities on Monday, calling for faster implementation of a planned 5,000-strong rapid deployment force as Europe braces for Donald Trump’s return to the US presidency.
In a foreign policy address to diplomats at the Elysée Palace, Macron advocated for “a massive European investment programme” in defense, warning that US priorities would shift away from European security in coming decades.
“It’s a safe bet that in 15 to 20 years’ time, the American priority will be its own defence, and much more so around and in the China Sea than in Europe,” Macron said, cautioning against dependence on US defense technology.
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The French leader dismissed fears about Trump’s second presidency, citing Europe’s resilience during his first term. He noted Trump’s decision to make Paris his first international trip last month as evidence of continuing dialogue.
“If we decide to be weak and defeatist, there’s little chance of being respected by President Trump’s United States of America,” Macron said.
While recent EU decisions have established plans for the rapid deployment force and increased industrial capacity, Macron insisted Europe must move “much faster and much stronger” to avoid what he called “shameful strategic dependencies.”
Macron said he would convene EU counterparts in February to discuss these proposals, with plans to present concrete measures in March.
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