16:23 01-10-2025

Macron: Europe Must Confront Russia with Military Strength

French President Emmanuel Macron says Europe faces confrontation with Russia and must boost defenses with long-range missiles and drone protection systems.

French President Emmanuel Macron said in an interview with BFMTV that Europe is locked in a confrontation with Russia and cannot afford to show weakness.

He stressed that Moscow has long been active in undermining the continent’s political stability, particularly through interference in elections.

Macron argued that Europe must strengthen its military potential by investing in long-range missiles and systems to counter drones. Referring to recent drone and aircraft incidents, he said responses should be swift and uncompromising. According to the president, any violation of European airspace should trigger what he described as «repressions».

The French leader’s remarks come as former NATO Supreme Commander Admiral James Stavridis urged the alliance to adopt a tougher stance against Russian aviation. He suggested that NATO should be ready to shoot down Russian drones and aircraft if they cross into the bloc’s airspace.