Macron: France Won’t Be Weak on Russia, But No Troops to Ukraine

President Emmanuel Macron has drawn a clear line regarding the war in Ukraine. In a fiery address on Tuesday, the French leader insisted that his country must not show “weakness” in the face of Russian aggression.

However, he moved quickly to reassure the public. Macron firmly denied any plans to send young French citizens to the frontlines.

“Weakness is a Mistake”

The President argued that standing up to Moscow is vital. He described Russia as the power that poses the biggest threat to French security.

“We would be wrong to show weakness in the face of this threat,” Macron declared. “If we want to protect ourselves, we must demonstrate that we are not weak.”

This tough rhetoric comes at a difficult time. European nations are trying to support Ukraine without entering a direct war.

Clearing Up the Confusion

Macron addressed fears that have spread across the country. He firmly denied that France is planning to draft its youth for the conflict.

Recent comments by a top general sparked alarm. The general warned that the country must be ready to “lose its children.” Macron dismissed these fears immediately. He said the words were taken out of context.

“It is absolutely necessary to dispel any confused idea suggesting that we are going to send our young people to Ukraine,” he stated.

A New Way to Serve

While a draft is off the table, the government wants citizens involved in defense.

Macron is expected to unveil a “transformation of national service” on Thursday. France ended compulsory conscription in 1997. Therefore, the new plan will likely be voluntary.

Early details suggest the program aims to train between 2,000 and 3,000 volunteers in the first year. Eventually, the goal is to sign up 50,000 people annually.

The “Coalition of the Willing”

On the international stage, France is rallying support. Macron spoke ahead of a major video call with 30 nations that support Kyiv.

This “coalition of the willing” is looking past the current fighting. Their main topic is how to secure the peace. The group is discussing a multinational force. If a ceasefire happens, this force would deter Russia from attacking again.

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