Macron Urges Europe to Assert Strategic Autonomy

French President Emmanuel Macron urged European nations on Friday to assert their strategic autonomy and defend their interests amid opposition from the United States, Russia, and China, describing the current global landscape as a pivotal moment of pressure.

Speaking during a discussion with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis in Athens, organized by the Kathimerini newspaper, Macron highlighted what he called a unique alignment of challenges. "We should not underestimate that this is a unique moment where a U.S. president, a Russian president, a Chinese president are dead against the Europeans," he said. "So, this is the right moment for us to wake up." He emphasized the need for Europe to build confidence and advance its own agenda, noting that transatlantic ties have evolved into a more sobering partnership.

Macron pointed to the United States' "America First" policy as a longstanding trend, not limited to the current administration. For the past 15 years, he said, Washington has prioritized its domestic concerns and competition with China over European priorities. "The United States could be an ally for certain countries, but this ally is not so much certain and nobody...