Moscow has accused French President Emmanuel Macron of turning his back on European peace, calling his latest national address inflammatory and reckless. Kremlin spokeswoman Maria Zakharova took to Telegram, blasting Macron’s tough stance on Russia while questioning why France recently appointed a new ambassador to Moscow if peace was not a priority.
Macron’s speech painted Russia as a growing threat, urging continued military support for Ukraine—regardless of U.S. involvement. He outlined plans to expand France’s military budget and defense investments while hinting at the controversial possibility of using French nuclear weapons to shield the EU. His remarks drew sharp criticism from Russian officials, including Dmitry Medvedev, who mocked him online, calling him “Micron” and dismissing his future political relevance.
In his address, Macron insisted Russia’s aggression wouldn’t stop at Ukraine, citing an estimated one million casualties in the ongoing war. He warned that the Kremlin was ramping up its military capabilities, planning to add 3,000 tanks and 300 fighter jets by 2030.
“Watching from the sidelines would be madness,” Macron declared, arguing that peace cannot come at the cost of Ukraine’s surrender. He doubled down on the need for Europe to take charge of its own security, stating, “Europe’s future should not be decided in Washington or Moscow.”
As speculation swirls about France placing its nuclear arsenal under EU control, Macron clarified that while discussions with allies are ongoing, nuclear policy will always remain under France’s authority. “The decision will always be made by the President of the Republic,” he affirmed.
