ISTANBUL
French President Emmanuel Macron issued a warning about the dangers posed by Russia late Thursday, declaring that it represents "an existential threat" to Europe.
Speaking at a news conference at the end of an extraordinary European Union leaders summit, Macron urged EU leaders to accelerate military support for Ukraine and bolster Europe’s own defense capabilities, insisting that the continent must "prepare for a long-term confrontation" with Russia.
"Russia is an existential threat to us. Not just to Ukraine, not just to its neighbors, but to all of Europe," he said.
He also stressed that the EU must move beyond words and take concrete action to counter Russia’s aggression.
"We can no longer expect to reap the dividends of peace," he said.
Emphasizing the urgency of the situation, he pointed out that Europe must now shift decisively “from planning to action in defense matters.”
A key outcome of the meeting was a commitment to increase military aid to Ukraine and boost European defense production.
Macron announced a €150 billion ($162 billion) loan backed by the EU budget to help member states acquire military equipment under the best market conditions. Additionally, he confirmed that the EU will provide Ukraine with €36 billion in 2025, partly funded by interest generated from frozen Russian assets.
No peace without guarantees
Macron reaffirmed that peace for Ukraine must be "solid and lasting," rejecting any settlement that rewards Russian aggression.
"We want peace for Ukraine…The Ukrainians desire it even more," he said.
Addressing concerns about potential ceasefire negotiations, Macron dismissed any agreement without security guarantees as "unacceptable."
“We have already experienced such a scenario in 2014,” he warned, referencing Russia’s annexation of Crimea.
"A ceasefire today, without guarantees, would be a defeat."
New European defense strategy
Macron made it clear that Europe must take greater responsibility for its own security, given shifting global priorities among traditional allies.
"We are also convinced that many of our historical allies now have other priorities outside Europe," he acknowledged.
To address these concerns, he outlined a strategy focused on strengthening Europe’s defense industry, reducing reliance on non-European military suppliers and streamlining procurement processes.
"We must not only spend more but also invest wisely in our defense," he said.
Identifying key areas for investment, he highlighted air and missile defense, artillery systems, long-range strike capabilities, drones, cybersecurity and electronic warfare as priorities.
"Each member state will be asked to review ongoing procurement orders to prioritize European suppliers," he said, underscoring the push for greater European self-sufficiency.
Engagement with US, NATO
Macron acknowledged ongoing discussions with the US and NATO regarding long-term security guarantees for Ukraine.
He revealed that negotiations between Washington and Kyiv are progressing, stating that "for the first time since the beginning of this process, there is now an established process between the US and Ukraine at the negotiator level to move forward on this framework."
On the question of NATO membership for Ukraine, he was clear: "The best security guarantee would be NATO membership. We support this."
However, he noted that the US has so far rejected similar mechanisms.
As part of an alternative security framework, Macron hinted at the possibility of deploying European forces in Ukraine under certain conditions.
"Not along the front lines or in occupied areas, but in stable zones after a peace agreement is reached," he said.
