By THOMAS ADAMSON, Related Press
PARIS (AP) — French President Emmanuel Macron prolonged an olive department to U.S. President-elect Donald Trump on Monday, declaring that France is “a solid ally” as he outlined his imaginative and prescient for world diplomacy in 2025 throughout his New 12 months’s deal with to French ambassadors.
“Donald Trump knows that he has a solid ally in France, an ally he does not underestimate, one who believes in Europe and carries a lucid ambition for the transatlantic relationship,” Macron stated on the Élysée Palace, emphasizing France’s dedication to fostering cooperation whereas urging European nations to fortify their unity and resilience.
“If we decide to be weak and defeatist, there is little chance we will be respected by the United States under President Trump,” he warned.
Macron’s speech, delivered towards a backdrop of geopolitical turmoil, laid out France’s international coverage priorities, spanning the Ukraine battle, European protection, and the Center East.
Whilst Macron prolonged an olive department to Trump, he delivered pointed criticism of tech mogul Elon Musk, a recognized Trump ally, for selling what he described as a “new reactionary international” motion by way of his social media platform, X.
French President Emmanuel Macron delivers his speech to French ambassadors posted all over the world, Monday, Jan. 6, 2025 on the Elysee Palace in Paris. (AP Picture/Aurelien Morissard, Pool)
With out naming Musk straight, Macron referenced his alleged help for Germany’s far-right AfD celebration and his rising interference in European elections.
“Who could have imagined, 10 years ago, that the owner of one of the world’s largest social networks would intervene directly in elections, including in Germany?” Macron stated. He warned of the dangers posed by unchecked energy within the fingers of tech billionaires and the destabilizing influence they may have on democratic establishments.
Macron framed Musk’s affect as a problem to Europe’s democratic values, reinforcing the necessity for European unity and resilience towards exterior disruptions.
On Ukraine: A Name for Realism and Duty
Addressing the grinding battle in Ukraine, Macron harassed the necessity for “realistic discussions on territorial questions,” including, “such negotiations can only be conducted by Ukrainians themselves.”
He known as on america to “help change the nature of the situation and convince Russia to come to the negotiating table,” whereas underscoring Europe’s pivotal function. “The Europeans will have to construct security guarantees for Ukraine, which will be primarily their responsibility,” he stated.
Macron countered Trump’s marketing campaign pledge for an categorical settlement, warning, “There is no quick and easy solution in Ukraine.” He additionally highlighted the stakes for america, stating, “The new American president himself knows the United States has no chance of winning anything if Ukraine loses.”
The French president additional cautioned towards compromise resulting from fatigue. “The credibility of the West will be shattered if we compromise because of fatigue,” he asserted, including {that a} capitulation of Ukraine could be catastrophic—not only for Europe, however for U.S. credibility as effectively.
A Broader Strategic Lens
Macron addressed a spread of urgent worldwide points, figuring out Iran because the “principal strategic and security challenge” within the Center East. He pointed to Tehran’s accelerated nuclear program as a looming world menace, warning that the world is “perilously close to the breaking point.”
On Syria, Macron reiterated France’s long-term dedication to supporting a democratic transition, pledging to stay devoted to Kurdish fighters battling terrorism. “The fight against terrorism must remain central to our priorities,” he stated, reaffirming France’s backing for allies just like the Kurds whereas advocating for a “sovereign, pluralistic Syria.”
Europe’s Protection and Financial Future
In a pointy critique of Europe’s dependence on U.S. protection expertise, Macron urged European nations to bolster their industrial capabilities.
“If we depend on the American industrial base for our security, we will face strategic dilemmas that are both cruel and culpable,” he warned.
Macron additionally addressed the EU-Mercosur commerce deal, signaling France’s intent to push for coherent commitments. The proposed settlement, which goals to cut back tariffs and enhance commerce between the European Union and South American international locations, has been criticized for its potential environmental and agricultural impacts. “The mass is not said. We will continue to defend the coherence of our commitments,” Macron said.
Macron’s remarks underscored France’s delicate balancing act on the worldwide stage—collaborating with outdated allies whereas sustaining European sovereignty.
Initially Printed: January 6, 2025 at 8:48 AM EST
