Fresh out of Barnard College with a degree in political science, Riley is learning the ropes as a writer and reporter for GZERO. When she isn’t writing about global politics, you can find her making GZERO’s crossword puzzles, conducting research on American politics, or persisting in her lifelong quest to learn French. Riley spends her time outside of work grilling, dancing, and wearing many hats (both literally and figuratively).
French President Emmanuel Macron has issued one of his strongest warnings yet about growing security threats in Europe, declaring, “Ukraine has become a global conflict.” In a national speech on Wednesday, he urged France and the European Union to accelerate efforts to strengthen military capabilities, even hinting at extending France’s nuclear deterrent to the rest of the EU.
His address came as Europe prepares for a reality without unconditional US military support. “I want to believe America will stand by our side, but we must prepare for that not to be the case,” he said. He expressed willingness to work with other European countries – Germany, in particular – to strengthen the continent as a collective, something France has called for since the 1960s.
He instructed his government to boost defense spending from 2.1% of GDP to 3.5% in five years – through reforms and without raising taxes. He also called on France to “reindustrialize” and establish complete military supply chains domestically.
Macron announced that military commanders from countries willing to commit peacekeeping troops in Ukraine will convene next week. “Russia has become a threat to France and Europe,” he stated, making it clear that any path to peace cannot come at Ukraine’s expense. But can Europe mobilize fast enough to save Ukraine? Read Ian Bremmer’s latest analysis here.
