German Chancellor Friedrich Merz criticized French President Emmanuel Macron’s plans to protect allied forces in the Middle East by deploying an aircraft carrier to the coast of Cyprus, stating that such initiatives sound more grand than they prove in practice.

According to him, France has only one aircraft carrier in relatively operational condition, which has already been sent to the Mediterranean Sea. He also noted that real capabilities to ensure peace could only be achieved through joint efforts.

Earlier, Macron announced plans to deploy the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle to the coast of Cyprus to protect allied forces in the Middle East.

On February 28, the United States and Israel began striking targets on Iranian territory, including Tehran; reports indicate destruction and civilian casualties. Iran is carrying out retaliatory strikes against Israeli territory as well as US military facilities in the Middle East.