In a statement following the conclusion of a European Union summit in Brussels, French President Emmanuel Macron warned against underestimating Russia’s ambitions in the ongoing war.

Speaking to reporters, Macron emphasized that it would be a misjudgment to assume that Russia’s aggressive actions would be limited to the Donbas and Crimea.

He also highlighted that the Kremlin’s portrayal of the situation as a war due to “Western intervention on Ukraine’s side” raises questions about the broader military goals of Russia. “By using this term, one is also even opening up uncertainty about Russia’s military objectives,” Macron said.

Macron’s assertion that it would be a mistake to think Russia plans to halt its aggression in the Donbas and Crimea regions aligns with his broader stance on the necessity for Europe to prepare for war to maintain peace. In an interview earlier this month, Macron emphasized that Europe’s security is directly linked to the situation in Ukraine and that the continent must not show weakness. He reiterated the importance of keeping the option of sending Western troops open. This marks Macron’s shift from a more diplomatic approach to a firmer stance on military readiness.