French President Emmanuel Macron acknowledged that the European Union alone might not be sufficient to counter threats posed by Russia.

He highlighted the importance of working closely with non-EU partners, including the United Kingdom, to build a comprehensive European security framework.

Speaking to The Economist, Macron reflected on the changing security landscape, pointing out a variety of risks that Europe faces.

“We have risks linked to Russian missiles,” he explained. “We have the Russian nuclear risk…and perhaps the risk of proliferation in Iran and others.”

These concerns have led Macron to call for a strategic approach to European security that involves not only EU member states but also other European countries.

The French President also emphasised the need for a unified European approach to security, while also retaining each country’s sovereignty.

“We need an in-depth strategic discussion with all Europeans who are prepared to do so,” he said, referring to the UK’s role as a “privileged partner” for France in terms of security cooperation. This suggests that even after Brexit, the UK has a crucial role to play in Europe’s defence strategy.

The French leader addressed the role of nuclear deterrence in European defence, clarifying that it is a sovereign decision for France.

However, he indicated that a broader debate on European defence must include nuclear capabilities. “If we want to build an effective and credible strategic concept of joint defence…nuclear weapons must be included in the debate,” Macron stated. He stressed that this should be done while respecting the existing rules and sovereignty of each country involved.

When asked if he believed the European Union was “not enough” on its own to guarantee Europe’s security, Macron described himself as a pragmatist.

“I believe very deeply in Europe,” he said. However, he noted that the EU has not traditionally considered itself as a military power, focusing more on economic and political integration.

Macron suggested that a joint European security framework should not be limited to EU member states, mentioning the importance of partnerships with non-EU countries like Norway and the UK.

He added: “It would be a mistake to exclude countries that have never been in the EU, or recently were, such as Norway, the United Kingdom or the Balkans. We have joint missile programmes, including with the British.”

Macron’s comments come as European countries continue to grapple with the evolving security threats from Russia, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. His call for a broader, more inclusive approach to European defence underscores the need for greater solidarity and coordination across the continent, beyond traditional EU structures.