In his address to the nation, French President Emmanuel Macron promised to continue supporting Ukraine and announced the strengthening of France's military power, as the world cannot be built "under Russia's dictate," at any cost up to Ukraine's capitulation.
"From day one, we decided to support Ukraine and impose sanctions against Russia. And we did the right thing. <...> Peace can no longer be guaranteed on our own continent. The Russian threat exists, and it affects European countries, it affects us," Macron stated.
According to him, Russia has become a threat to France and Europe. The French leader believes that by 2030, Russia plans to mobilize 3 million soldiers and produce 4,000 tanks. "Who in this context can believe that today's Russia will stop in Ukraine?" Emmanuel Macron asked.
The President of France emphasized that after the signing of a peace agreement, the country is preparing to send a peacekeeping contingent to Ukraine. He also announced a meeting of chiefs of staff from countries ready to "guarantee future peace in Ukraine" — it will take place next week.
In his address, Macron also stated that France has the most effective army in Europe, and also decided to start a discussion on the use of France's nuclear weapons to protect the entire EU.
"The future of Europe cannot be determined in Moscow or Washington," Macron is quoted by the media.