In light of major changes in international politics, French President Emmanuel Macron appears as one of the most prominent players on the world stage, as he moves strongly and independence to lead Europe and may be further.
German vacuum and French rise
In the absence of a stable government in Germany, Macron advances to fill the leadership void, carrying with him a clear French vision of Europe amid the escalation of crises east and western, from Ukraine’s war to trade tensions with Washington.
Confronting Trump … economically and politically
Macron attacked Trump’s temporary comment of customs duties, describing it as a “fragile armistice”, and added: “This truce is temporary … and 90 days of doubt do not serve anyone.” Trump’s plans to reshape Gaza also refused, saying: “Gaza is not a real estate project,” in a sarcastic response to a proposal to transfer it to “Rivera Middle East.”
Support for Ukraine and intelligence independence
Macron leads moves to form a European peacekeeping power in Ukraine, as part of a new alliance known as the “ready coalition”. France, which has independent intelligence from Washington, has played a pivotal role when America stopped participating in intelligence information with Kiev in March.
Diplomacy in Gaza and a historical step towards Palestine
Macron visited Egypt and met the wounded Gaza, condemned the Israeli attack on relief workers, and demanded that aid to enter immediately. He also announced an international conference in June, in partnership with Saudi Arabia, to recognize the State of Palestine.
Is Europe ready for one leader?
Despite Macron’s ambitions, Europe is still divided, and there are those who see that the continent needs new alliances, such as a French-British-German axis, instead of relying on one leader.
