French President Emmanuel Macron is set to deliver a speech outlining his vision for Europe to become a more assertive global power amidst ongoing challenges such as the conflict in Ukraine. The speech, scheduled for Thursday at Paris' Sorbonne University, comes ahead of crucial European Parliament elections in June.
Macron's address is expected to focus on strategic and geopolitical issues within Europe, including defense, the economy, environmental protection, and the preservation of democracy. The conflict in Ukraine, now in its third year, is anticipated to be a central theme of the speech.
France has consistently supported Ukraine in its resistance against Russian aggression, with Macron advocating for European solidarity with the country. His recent suggestion of potentially deploying Western troops to bolster Ukraine's defenses has stirred debate among European leaders.
Additionally, Macron aims to garner support for his centrist Renaissance party in the upcoming European Parliament elections, following the loss of his majority in France's National Assembly to left-wing and far-right parties in the 2022 election.
Meanwhile, France is grappling with social unrest as it prepares to host the Olympic Games this summer. Recent protests by teachers, police officers, and farmers have added to the tension, following widespread demonstrations last year against Macron's successful proposal to increase the retirement age.
