Europe Must Shed its Self-Imposed Naivety or Face Existential Threat, Warns Macron
French President Emmanuel Macron delivered a stark warning in a major speech on the EU, asserting that Europe must swiftly adapt to survive in a changing global landscape.
Speaking for over two hours at the Sorbonne University in Paris, Macron emphasized the urgent need for Europe to confront its mortality. “We must be clear-sighted and acknowledge that our Europe is mortal. It is susceptible to demise, contingent upon the decisions we make—decisions that must be made without delay,” he stated.
Macron’s address served as a continuation of his significant 2017 Sorbonne speech, where, early in his presidency, he advocated for the EU’s progression towards greater self-reliance in defense and the economy.
Given its timing, just weeks ahead of European elections, the speech also aimed to inject vigor into the flagging campaign of Macron’s Renaissance party, currently lagging behind Marine Le Pen’s hard-right faction.
Offering a bleak assessment of Europe’s unpreparedness for the “paradigm shift” gripping the world, Macron highlighted challenges such as Russian hostility, waning US interest, and Chinese competition, which risk relegating the EU to the sidelines.
“The era of Europe sourcing its energy and fertilizer from Russia, outsourcing production to China, and relying on the US for security is over,” he declared.
In response, Macron urged European leaders to brace for “decisive strategic choices” concerning defense and the economy, advocating for a substantial dose of protectionism to safeguard European interests. He stressed the imperative of building a credible independent defense capability, enabling Europe to engage in conflict autonomously if necessary, without reliance on the US.