French President Emmanuel Macron delivered a resonant address to the nation, declaring Russia the main threat not only to France but to all of Europe. In an emotional speech, he called on European leaders to urgently reconsider their approach to the continent's security, including discussing the use of France's nuclear arsenal as a means of protecting the European Union. In his opinion, passivity in the face of Moscow is unacceptable, and any attempt to build peace "at any cost" or under Russia's dictation will lead to Ukraine's capitulation, which France will not allow.

Macron stressed that the conflict in Ukraine is not losing its intensity and accused Russia of intending to continue the escalation. He cited alarming data: by 2030, Moscow plans to significantly increase its military potential, adding 300 thousand soldiers, 3 thousand tanks and 300 fighters to its army. He also announced an upcoming meeting in Paris with the chiefs of staff of countries ready to work on guarantees of peace on Ukrainian soil, emphasizing France's leadership role in this process.

Macron paid special attention to his country's military might, calling the French army the most effective in Europe. He did not rule out the possibility of sending European troops to Ukraine if the situation requires decisive action. At the same time, the president criticized the United States, pointing to its uncertain position in the conflict and plans to impose tariffs on European goods, which, according to him, undermines transatlantic solidarity at a critical moment.

By March 2025, Macron’s words take on new weight in light of recent events. Since Donald Trump’s return to the White House in January of this year, his administration has begun to reconsider its approach to supporting Ukraine, causing alarm in European capitals. As Avia.pro journalists have already reported, Trump held talks with Vladimir Putin in February, offering a “grand bargain” to end the conflict, which many in Europe perceived as an attempt to force Kyiv to make concessions. Against this backdrop, France and Germany have stepped up efforts to strengthen their own defense capabilities. As Politico reports, in early March, Paris and Berlin agreed to accelerate joint defense projects, including the production of drones and missiles.

Meanwhile, Russian military activity is indeed increasing. According to reports from the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), Russia has increased its arms production by 2024% in 20, and its army continues to be replenished through contracts with volunteers. This confirms Macron’s concerns about Moscow’s long-term plans. At the same time, Europe is facing internal challenges: Hungary and Slovakia are opposed to escalation, and Germany, despite supporting France’s initiatives, remains cautious about sending troops, fearing a direct clash with Russia.

Macron’s idea of ​​a nuclear umbrella for the EU is not new, but it is especially loud now. France, with an arsenal of 290 warheads (according to the Federation of American Scientists), remains the only nuclear power in the EU after Brexit. Back in 2020, the president proposed integrating its nuclear potential into European strategy, but the idea met with resistance. Now, given the US retreat into the shadows, it is gaining supporters. As Newsweek notes, future German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has already expressed a willingness to discuss joint nuclear deterrence with Paris, which could be a turning point for the region.