U.S. foreign policy under President Donald Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron is spearheading efforts to unify European leaders against what he describes as an “existential threat” from Russia. This initiative comes as the Trump administration signals a readiness to engage directly with Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, potentially sidelining both European allies and Kyiv.
On Wednesday, February 19, 2025, President Macron is set to convene a meeting involving leaders from approximately 15 countries, with the majority participating via video conference. The primary objective of this gathering is to formulate a cohesive European response to the evolving geopolitical landscape and to address concerns arising from Washington’s unexpected policy shift.
The urgency of this meeting is underscored by President Trump’s recent overtures toward Moscow. The U.S. administration has expressed a willingness to engage in diplomatic discussions with President Putin, aiming to resolve the three-year-long war in Ukraine. Notably, these discussions have been proposed without the direct involvement of European nations or Ukrainian officials, raising alarms about the potential implications for European security and the sovereignty of Ukraine.
In light of these developments, President Macron emphasized the necessity for a unified European stance. He warned that inaction or disarray among European nations could embolden Russian aggression, potentially bringing the conflict closer to Europe’s borders. Macron’s call to action reflects a broader concern that Europe’s strategic interests may be compromised if it remains passive or divided in the face of shifting alliances and external threats.
Earlier in the week, Macron convened an emergency meeting with key European leaders, as well as NATO and European Union officials, to deliberate on the appropriate course of action. However, the exclusion of several smaller European countries, notably Romania and the Czech Republic—both staunch supporters of Ukraine—from these initial discussions led to discontent and calls for a more inclusive approach. In response, the upcoming meeting aims to broaden participation, ensuring that a wider array of European voices is heard in the formulation of a collective strategy.
As part of this inclusive effort, President Macron is scheduled to hold bilateral talks with Romania’s interim President, Ilie Bolojan, on Wednesday afternoon. Following their discussions, both leaders will join the larger group of European heads of state and government in an informal videoconference. This approach signifies a deliberate attempt to bridge gaps and foster solidarity among European nations, recognizing that a fragmented response could undermine the continent’s security and diplomatic standing.
France has consistently positioned itself as a key ally of Ukraine, providing both political support and material assistance since the onset of Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022. The French government has supplied military aid, including artillery systems and armored vehicles, and has engaged in training programs for Ukrainian soldiers. This steadfast support underscores France’s commitment to upholding international law and the sovereignty of nations in the face of aggression.
In a recent interview with French regional newspapers, President Macron articulated the gravity of the situation, stating, “Russia poses an existential threat to Europeans.” He further elaborated on the potential for France to enhance its support to Ukraine, indicating that while the deployment of ground combat troops is not under consideration, the provision of military experts or limited troop deployments in non-combat zones is being evaluated. This nuanced stance reflects a balance between demonstrating resolve and avoiding direct military confrontation.
The broader European response to the U.S. policy shift has been marked by a mix of urgency and introspection. The prospect of the United States and Russia engaging in bilateral negotiations without European input has prompted leaders across the continent to reassess their diplomatic and security strategies. There is a growing recognition that Europe must assert its interests proactively to prevent being marginalized in decisions that directly impact its security landscape.
In this context, President Macron’s leadership is pivotal. By rallying European nations and advocating for a cohesive and assertive response, he aims to ensure that Europe remains a central player in the resolution of the Ukraine conflict. The forthcoming discussions are expected to address a range of issues, including the coordination of military aid to Ukraine, the reinforcement of economic sanctions against Russia, and the exploration of diplomatic avenues to de-escalate tensions. The outcomes of these talks will likely shape the trajectory of Europe’s foreign policy and its role on the global stage in the coming years.
