At the Munich Security Conference, French President Emmanuel Macron defended Europe against criticisms, one year after J. D. Vance's scathing speech. He urged Europeans to overcome their timidity and strengthen their geopolitical role. The context includes transatlantic uncertainties and the war in Ukraine.
On February 13, at the Munich Security Conference in Bavaria, Emmanuel Macron delivered a speech calling on Europeans to have more confidence in themselves. “We are too timid. (…) It is terrible for us not to believe in ourselves. Everyone should be inspired by us instead of constantly criticizing us and trying to divide us,” he stated.
One year after J. D. Vance's intervention, the U.S. vice president who criticized Europe by stating that the main threat was “neither Russia nor China,” but “the renunciation of some of its most fundamental values,” Macron lambasted the caricatures of Europe. It has been portrayed as an aging, slow, and fragmented construction, an overregulated and apathetic economy, or a society “prey to barbaric migrations.” He also mentioned accusations of suppressing free speech.
Macron emphasized Europe's intrinsic strength, which must become “a geopolitical power” even though it is “not in its DNA.” Upon arrival, he acknowledged uncertainties in the U.S.-Europe relationship, more than a year after Donald Trump's return to the White House, calling for mutual clarification of positions.
On Ukraine, he advocated for European involvement in negotiations and restoring a “transparent communication channel with Russia.” To be in a position of strength, Europe must develop its defense “toolbox,” particularly in deep precision strike systems.
Before him, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz warned that “our freedom is no longer assured” in the era of great powers, calling for “sacrifices, not one day, but now.” He recognized a transatlantic divide, partially validating Vance's remarks, but stressing that even the United States cannot act alone. The discussions cover the erosion of the international order, the war in Ukraine, nuclear deterrence, and other issues like Greenland.
