French President Emmanuel Macron has called on European Union (EU) countries to stop purchasing weapons from the United States, urging a shift toward European defense solutions.
French President Emmanuel Macron (Photo: Reuters)
According to Politico, President Macron is leading a campaign to convince EU nations to stop buying defense equipment from the US and instead support European manufacturers, particularly those based in France.
Macron, a long-time advocate for European defense autonomy, aims to redirect EU defense spending toward regional solutions. He emphasized the need for European countries to transition away from US weaponry and invest in French and European defense systems.
“My goal is to persuade EU countries that rely on US weapons to choose European alternatives,” Macron stated in a recent interview with French media outlets.
“Countries that currently buy US-made Patriot missile defense systems should consider the new generation of the Franco-Italian SAMP/T air defense system. Nations purchasing F-35 jets should opt for the Rafale fighter instead. This is a strategic way to increase European production,” Macron added.
His comments come as NATO allies in Europe increasingly depend on US-made weapons. This month, the Netherlands and Belgium confirmed their continued purchase of F-35 fighter jets, while Portugal is exploring options to replace its aging F-16s with the more advanced F-35s, citing the shifting dynamics of US-NATO relations.
Macron also called on French defense companies to streamline operations, reduce costs, and make French-made weapons more attractive to potential buyers. He mentioned the importance of “cutting red tape” to improve competitiveness in the global arms market.
The French president further discussed the possibility of deploying European troops to support Ukraine, with plans to “deploy several thousand soldiers across key positions in various countries for training programs.” He highlighted the significance of showing Europe’s long-term support for Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict.
Macron also expressed his concerns about Russian President Vladimir Putin’s ceasefire conditions in Ukraine, which he deemed “unacceptable.” He argued that such a deal would effectively freeze the conflict and allow Russia to maintain control over parts of Ukraine without any long-term guarantees for security.
