Author: Philippe Ricard

Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer in Woodstock, near Oxford, England, July 18, 2024. LUDOVIC MARIN / AFP At the European Political Community summit, Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer displayed gestures of goodwill and promising words after recent political changes in their respective countries. Starmer, with a new majority, seeks to restore relations with the EU post-Brexit. He aims to negotiate a defense pact with the EU, emphasizing the need for European security amid global uncertainties. Macron, pleased with UK’s involvement in the European Political Community, recognizes the importance of reconnecting with the continent on…

Emmanuel Macron, on the sidelines of the NATO summit in Washington, July 10, 2024. LUDOVIC MARIN / AFP Emmanuel Macron kept a low profile at the NATO summit in Washington on July 10 as France faces a political crisis. The alliance agreed on Ukraine’s path towards NATO membership but only after the war with Russia ends. President Biden called for unity to stop Putin while concerns over Trump’s return lingered. Macron’s discreet support for Ukraine ahead of his meeting with President Zelensky is crucial amidst ongoing Russian threats. While allies pledged military support, Macron’s intentions remain undisclosed. Paris is aware…

Emmanuel Macron with European leaders in Brussels on June 27, 2024. Following the French parliamentary elections, Europe breathed a sigh of relief as the far right remained on the doorstep of power. Leaders across the continent expressed relief, with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz emphasizing the importance of the French result for Franco-German relations. However, concerns arose about the potential rise of the radical left in France. German officials expressed worries about possible paralysis in the French government and the impact on Macron’s presidency. British PM Keir Starmer welcomed the defeat of the far right but may face challenges in advancing…

A well-timed European Council is on the horizon, but for Emmanuel Macron, it’s far from a moment of respite. With the looming legislative elections and uncertainties in French politics, the stakes are high. European leaders gather in Brussels to address concerns about Trump’s potential return to the White House and show support for Ukraine against Russia. They also plan to appoint EU institution heads for the next five years, including Ursula von der Leyen. Macron’s future hangs in the balance as he faces the possibility of cohabitation with the emerging majority. Risk of conflicts Institutional challenges await if a far-right…

US President Joe Biden arrives in Italy for the G7 summit, in the province of Brindisi, on June 12, 2024. PIERO CRUCIATTI / AFP The G7 summit in Puglia, Italy, brings together world leaders including Ukrainian President Zelensky to discuss the ongoing conflict with Russia. Indian Prime Minister Modi, Brazilian President Lula, and other global leaders are also in attendance. The summit serves as a platform to strengthen alliances with medium-sized powers and address the crisis in Ukraine. Read more Subscribers only ‘After focusing on Western support, Kyiv must now plead its case to the global South’ The G7 leaders…

French President Emmanuel Macron (right) and German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, at Oradour-sur-Glane, June 10, 2024. LUDOVIC MARIN / AFP Despite domestic political turmoil, French President Emmanuel Macron, alongside German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, visited the historic Oradour-sur-Glane on June 10. This visit occurred after Macron dissolved the Assemblée Nationale. The two leaders refrained from commenting on the situation in France, maintaining their focus on international matters. Despite Macron’s active involvement in European events, such as the D-Day commemorations and hosting world leaders, recent events have potentially weakened his international influence. Macron’s attendance at upcoming summits, including the G7 and meetings with…

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on arrival at Lisbon’s Figo Maduro military airport, May 28, 2024. PATRICIA DE MELO MOREIRA / AFP Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is set to join the ceremonies commemorating the 80th anniversary of the Allied landings on the Normandy coast in 1944. Amidst ongoing conflicts, Zelensky is expected to stand alongside world leaders in honoring the historic event on June 6 at Omaha Beach, marking a display of unity and support for Ukraine. Display of cohesion The upcoming ceremonies in Normandy, excluding Russia, showcase the Western allies’ solidarity in the face of continued unrest in Ukraine. Despite…

Protesters wave Palestinian during a demonstration in Paris on June 1, 2024. ZAKARIA ABDELKAFI / AFP As the European elections approach, the debate on recognizing a Palestinian state gains momentum in France. While some European countries have taken the step, France remains hesitant, with President Macron stressing the importance of the timing for such a decision. This delay has sparked criticism from political parties, with the left advocating for recognition and the right opposing it. Read more Subscribers only In French Parliament, tempers flare at every mention of hot-button Israel-Palestine issue The search for a “useful dynamic” You have 50.83%…

Emmanuel Macron and Olaf Scholz address journalists at a press conference at Meseberg Castle (Germany), May 28, 2024. LIESA JOHANNSSEN / REUTERS Emmanuel Macron and Olaf Scholz took a significant step in supporting Ukraine’s military efforts against Russia during a joint meeting. Macron allowed Ukraine to strike military targets in Russia, while Scholz authorized tanks to strike Russian territory. This decision follows pressure from Ukrainian President Zelensky to enhance their defensive capabilities. While Macron emphasized the need to protect civilian areas in Russia, Scholz underlined Ukraine’s right to defend itself within international law. However, the US and NATO have maintained…

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and French President Emmanuel Macron walk with Saxony’s Prime Minister Michael Kretschmer near Moritzburg Castle, near Dresden, on May 27, 2024, during the French president’s state visit to Germany. RONNY HARTMANN / AFP During his state visit to Germany, French President Emmanuel Macron addressed a young audience in Dresden, urging them to mobilize against the far-right. This call to action came amidst a European election campaign where Macron’s ruling coalition was facing challenges from Marine Le Pen’s Rassemblement National. Macron highlighted the importance of European solidarity, contrasting his vision with the policies of the far-right. In…