Macron at EU summit: Aid to Ukraine key to Europe's security; Russian diesel deal inappropriate, ineffective
Aid to Ukraine is in the European Union's immediate security interests; capitulation to the aggressor is a dangerous sign of weakness, and attempts at reconciliation through agreements on Russian fuel are ineffective, French President Emmanuel Macron said at a press conference following the EU leaders' summit in Brussels on Friday.
At the EU summit in Brussels, French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized the crucial role of aid to Ukraine in the region's security. He cautioned that yielding to the aggressor would be a sign of weakness, which could be dangerous for Europe. Macron argued that assistance to Ukraine was not a matter of goodwill, but a matter of interest for all Europeans, as it directly impacts their security.
Macron warned against isolating Ukraine among its allies, stating that France and all member states of the European Union support Ukraine because they understand that their security is at stake. He warned that if France were to stop supporting Ukraine, it would place the country in an unprecedented position, being the only one not providing aid. This, Macron said, would suggest that France's security is worth very little.
The French leader also criticized the recent U.S. agreement to allow Russian diesel fuel onto the global market, calling it inappropriate and ineffective. He believed that the decision sends a negative message, creates division, and doubt, and does not effectively bring down diesel, gasoline, and gas prices. Instead, Macron considers this move to be counterproductive and inappropriate.
Macron accused Russia of deliberately provoking global hunger by obstructing Ukrainian agricultural exports. Despite Ukraine having harvested a record crop, Russia is hindering the export of Ukrainian grain, which would have helped feed many poorer countries, including Egypt and other African nations. By doing so, Russia is depriving these countries of food while damaging Ukraine, and Macron described such actions as criminal in every respect.
Regarding public discussions surrounding satellite data and early-warning systems for air threats, Macron stressed the need to restore trust and clarity. He acknowledged that there has been considerable debate over satellite imagery and early-warning systems, but emphasized that Europe would work to provide clarity and ensure certainty, thus securing full support.
Written by urgent.news from Interfax-Ukraine's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
