Key facts
- President Macron announced Europe is increasing defence investment and strategic autonomy within NATO.
- He will present new defence initiatives and joint military exercises at a July 13 summit of Ukraine's allies.
- The summit will address Russia's shadow fleet, new military capabilities for Ukraine, and defence industry mobilisation.
- Macron highlighted Europe's development of its own missile-defence systems and AI-enabled command systems.
- France will participate in NATO force rotations in Finland.
French President Emmanuel Macron stated that Europe has stepped up its defence efforts within NATO, ahead of a summit of Ukraine's allies scheduled for July 13. Macron plans to use the gathering to unveil new defence initiatives and joint military exercises, framing it as evidence of Europe assuming greater responsibility for its own security.
Speaking at NATO's annual summit in Ankara, Macron argued that Europe is investing more in defence, defending its sovereignty, and developing strategic autonomy while remaining anchored within the alliance. He noted that Russia's war in Ukraine and uncertainty over long-term U.S. military commitments have accelerated these efforts.
The July 13 meeting is expected to convene around 35 leaders and will focus on tackling Russia's shadow fleet, providing new military capabilities for Ukraine, increasing defence industry mobilisation, and deepening operational cooperation among Kyiv's backers. Macron emphasized that European spending should prioritize European equipment.
Macron highlighted Europe's progress in developing its own missile-defence systems, long-range precision-strike capabilities, early-warning networks, and AI-enabled command systems. He also sought to downplay concerns about U.S. commitment, noting that U.S. President Donald Trump had reiterated support for NATO in private discussions.
France's relationship with NATO has historically been complex, with Paris withdrawing from the integrated military command in 1966 and returning in 2009. Macron has aimed to strengthen France's role within NATO and bolster a European pillar of the alliance. He announced that France would participate in NATO force rotations in Finland alongside Finland and Sweden.