No one can predict what Emmanuel Macron managed to secure from Donald Trump on his trip to Washington on Monday, February 24, but no one can reproach him for trying. At a time when the European Union's identity, future and security are in jeopardy, the French president has rediscovered a role worthy of him. He is increasing his engagement on the national, European and transatlantic stages, trying to loosen the American-Russian grip on Ukraine, make Europe's voice heard and prevent Europe's subjugation.
Two impromptu European mini-summits held at the Elysée Palace on February 17, followed by a meeting with the leaders of French political parties and parliamentary groups before his flight to the United States, marked the return of a president who was once seen as sidelined – if not finished – following his decision to call early parliamentary elections last June. With his keen sense of timing and the absence of strong competitors on the European stage – Germany was in the midst of an election – the French president pushed his advantage as far as he could.
In contrast, the French political parties, eager to write him off, found themselves in the wrong role. Caught up in petty political games, they gave the impression of being oblivious to what had happened in Munich, on February 14, when US Vice President JD Vance had fiercely attacked Western democracies, snubbed outgoing German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, and expressed strong support for the far-right Alternative for Germany party. They behaved as if they hadn't heard Trump treat his Ukrainian counterpart, Volodymyr Zelensky, as an enemy.
The French people, however, have clearly understood the gravity of the situation – at least according to an Ipsos poll for La Tribune Dimanche published on Sunday, February 23. They are very concerned about a potential US disengagement from NATO or Ukraine but refuse to let Europe give up and advocate continued support for Kyiv, even if the US were to withdraw. On all these points, they align with what the French president – who has been plagued for months by record-low approval ratings – just over 20% – is advocating for and attempting to do.
You have 59.11% of this article left to read. The rest is for subscribers only.