French president Macron pushes European nations to reject American defense deals

French President Emmanuel Macron has launched a campaign to persuade European Union (EU) nations to prioritise European-made defense equipment over American alternatives.

“My intention is to go and convince European states that have become accustomed to buying American,” Macron said in an interview with multiple French media outlets on Saturday, as reported by Politico.

Promoting European Defense systems

Macron emphasised the importance of supporting local defense industries, citing specific alternatives to US weapons.

“Those who buy Patriot should be offered the new-generation Franco-Italian SAMP/T. Those who buy the F-35 should be offered the Rafale. That’s the way to increase the rate of production,” he explained.

His comments come as European NATO members continue to increase their dependence on US weaponry. This month, Belgium and the Netherlands confirmed their purchase of American-made F-35 fighter jets, while Portugal remains undecided on whether to replace its F-16 fleet with F-35s due to recent US policy shifts within NATO.

Macron’s vision for European troops in Ukraine

Macron also outlined his stance on potential European troop deployments to Ukraine, emphasising training and support roles.

“The goal is to deploy a few thousand men per nation, at key points, to carry out training programs and show our support over the long term,” he stated.

Rejecting Putin’s ceasefire conditions

Macron strongly rejected the conditions proposed by Russian President Vladimir Putin for a ceasefire in Ukraine, calling them “unacceptable.”

“This would mean a partial invasion of Ukraine and a freeze on the conflict, without offering any security or guarantees for the future,” Macron asserted.

Reforming France’s Voluntary National Service

The French president announced plans to reform the Service National Universel (SNU), a voluntary service program for 15- to 17-year-olds that includes sports, civic education, and community service.

He described the reform as a way to meet the nation’s needs and address key priorities, but clarified that he is not in favor of reinstating compulsory military service.