French President Emmanuel Macron Photo: Getty Images
French President Emmanuel Macron delivered his eighth New Year’s address, in which he highlighted the challenges facing France and Europe in 2025. He outlined the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East, election manipulations in Georgia, Moldova and Romania, and terrorist attacks as the main threats to security and stability. This was reported by Reuters.
“The wars in Ukraine and the Middle East are not distant conflicts. These conflicts directly affect France and threaten its security, unity and economy,” Macron said.
A threat to European democracy
Macron expressed concern about manipulations during the elections in Georgia, Moldova and Romania, noting that this poses a serious challenge to European democracy.
“Terrorist attacks in Europe and in our neighbourhood show that our security and the proper functioning of democracies can never be taken for granted,” the French leader stressed.
Europe must strengthen its defence capabilities
Macron called for greater European independence in defence, stressing the need to stop relying on the United States. He proposed to increase investment in military rearmament.
“Europe must stop delegating its security to others. It is our duty to ensure stability and protection of our citizens,” the President said.
Determination in international economic relations
In the context of international trade, Macron called on the European Union to act more decisively. He warned of the dangers of being dependent on trade rules imposed by other countries, especially in the face of the threat of tariff increases by US President-elect Donald Trump.
“We must say no to rules that weaken us and yes to our economic independence,” Macron said.
Macron’s address summed up the key challenges for France and the EU in the new year, emphasising the need to strengthen democracy, defence and economic resilience in a changing world.
