Europe Will Defend Itself ‘With Blood, if Necessary,’ Macron Says

Key Points:

• French President Emmanuel Macron declared that Europeans are prepared to defend their continent "with blood, if necessary," signaling strong commitment to Ukraine amid ongoing conflict with Russia.
• On the eve of Bastille Day, Macron hosted over 25 leaders to plan a multinational coalition, the "coalition of the willing," aimed at supporting Ukraine’s military and stabilizing the country post-ceasefire.
• Macron delivered his final annual military address before leaving office next May, highlighting significant growth in France’s defense budget from 32 billion euros in 2017 to 57 billion euros in 2024.
• The statements and coalition plans reflect Europe's broader effort to assert its own security capabilities as the U.S. reduces its role as Europe’s security guarantor, amid concerns over Russian aggression.
• Despite increased military spending and readiness, Europe remains relatively underprepared for major conflict but is making strides to bolster its defense posture in response to evolving geopolitical threats.