Emmanuel Macron, the French Republic’s president, has begun to place more pressure on Europe and Western powers as the Ukraine invasion ensues. Macron claims that Europe must be prepared for a possible war, reiterating that the advancement of Russian forces has the capacity to impede on European security. Macron’s recent adamance has been perceived as an instrument to a higher political agenda, especially with French elections looming. It is assumed that Macron is using his support of Ukraine to create a rift between himself and his far-right opponents– candidates that have had a history of compliance with Moscow. Aside from this accusation, Macron is insistent on acknowledging the Russian threat with the intention of sending Western troops to Ukraine.
The BBC discloses Macron’s scrutiny of Russia through his claim of the Kremlin’s “noticeably harder-line.” Through escalating cyber attacks on neighboring nations and constraints on ‘free and fair’ elections in Russia, Macron has inferred the heightened risks. BBC reports that recent polls show “about 68% –oppose his line on sending Western troops” to Ukraine. Unfortunately, France’s head of state lacks the ability to convince the majority to back him up, more specifically German Chancellor Olaf Scholz.
By suggesting Western troops, Macron is critiquing the legitimacy of NATO. Most NATO nations have refused to get involved in the war, and Macron’s recent pressures have attempted to hold these members accountable. Although it is important to rebuild Europe’s security and stability, sending Western troops to Ukraine is not the best idea. Putin warned the West against any military involvement, and encouraging their participation in the war can result in more destruction. The dangers that derive from Western involvement are far greater than any other potential solution. It is essential for NATO members to acknowledge the growing threat of Russia, and attempt to take actions that can mitigate casualties and rebuild Europe’s security.
French-German relations have ultimately impeded on the efficiency of European support in the Russo-Ukrainian war. With Macron and Scholz’s leadership differences causing tensions between the two powerful states, it has become increasingly more difficult to support Ukraine. Since Macron claims the United States is no longer dependable, he has shifted focus to pressuring Germany. It is imperative for the two states to not exhibit weakness in their relationship since unity within Europe is crucial for peace in Ukraine.
A united front in Europe is essential for the security of the continent. In order to prevent a Russian victory, the nations must cooperate and work towards bringing peace to Ukraine. It is negligible to worsen the situation by sending Western troops, so all NATO members must prioritize Ukraine and do everything in their power to bring about amity. Macron has the correct intentions of urging others to recognize the severity of the situation, but ruling out certain ideas that can generate violence is vital. Ultimately, in order to possess security in Europe, all nations must congregate and build a foundation in which they have the capability to alleviate the Russian threat.
