**Macron Calls for European Independence**
French President Emmanuel Macron wants Europe to be more independent and powerful. He said this in Portugal on February 28. The comments come as the US is changing its policy on Ukraine and Russia.
Macron thinks that Europe should take control of its own affairs, especially when it comes to technology, industry, and defense. He believes that relying too much on the US will only lead to weakness.
The French president was critical of European leaders who think they need to “bend their backs” to please the Americans. Macron warned against entering into a state of happy subjugation to the US.
This is not the first time Macron has called for European independence. He has been saying this for a while now. The comments are especially relevant given the uncertain support from the US for Ukraine’s conflict with Russia.
Macron and other leaders, like UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, want to deploy European peacekeepers in Ukraine to monitor any potential ceasefire. This is part of a broader effort to strengthen Europe’s defense capabilities and show that they can stand on their own.
The situation is complex, but Macron’s message is clear: Europe needs to be more united and independent than ever before.