At the Madrid NATO summit, the French president conveyed a clear message about continued Allied support for Ukraine, stating that assistance would endure “as long as necessary” and that it would come with a price. The global order disrupted by Vladimir Putin is the backdrop for these commitments, and France announced an intent to move quickly in bolstering Kyiv with further military aid to withstand Russia’s brutal aggression. (Source: Reuters)
In concrete terms, Paris plans to send six additional self-propelled howitzers, representing the latest generation of artillery, along with a substantial number of armored vehicles whose exact count was not disclosed. Macron underscored that France, along with its allies and European partners, will remain present. He reminded attendees that the European continent has not been at peace since February 24, when Russia launched its invasion. (Source: Associated Press)
The French president reflected on democracy as a fragile achievement, noting that the Spanish people understand this intimately. He urged steadfast resolve and highlighted that the Madrid summit marked progress amid an unprecedented security landscape for Europe since World War II. These remarks were delivered during a press conference at the IFEMA venue where the summit took place. (Source: Agence France-Presse)
Macron pressed for a policy of concrete and rapid reinforcement of arms and ammunition shipments to the Ukrainian resistance. He framed this as an urgent need not only to safeguard peace across Europe but also to uphold the established rules of the international order that emerged in 1945. (Source: Reuters)
Even as Europe’s guard remains elevated, Macron warned that the continent is not at peace, yet the alliance is not at war. Russia bears sole responsibility for the conflict and its far-reaching consequences, including energy and food security challenges worldwide. (Source: BBC News)
To this end, France argued that Russia cannot prevail, as a victory by Moscow would threaten the security of free nations. Ukrainians bear the human costs of war, and supporting Ukraine is described as a duty for France and its partners. (Source: The Guardian)
France also affirmed its intention to strengthen the alliance’s deterrence capabilities, recalling that a brigade was deployed to Romania as part of this effort. Macron emphasized that France’s nuclear contribution remains a meaningful component of NATO’s strategic posture. (Source: Reuters)
Regarding diplomacy, Macron did not close the door on dialogue with Russia if circumstances allow. He indicated ongoing coordination with President Volodymyr Zelensky and EU partners, and he did not rule out renewed talks if the situation justified them. (Source: Bloomberg)
Finally, Macron referenced a period in 2009 when he questioned NATO’s purpose, describing the alliance as potentially facing a moment of “brain death.” The stance taken in Madrid, he suggested, invites Allies to reassess their mission and roles, guiding NATO’s actions going forward. (Source: Financial Times)