In a lengthy speech delivered at the Sorbonne in Paris, French President Emmanuel Macron outlined his vision for a more independent European Union, emphasizing the need for a credible defense policy to counter Russia and reduce dependence on the United States. Macron urged the strengthening of European defense production and industrial policies to compete with economic superpowers that do not adhere to free-trade rules.

Speaking ahead of the European elections in June, Macron aimed to set the agenda for the next five years of the European Union. His speech comes at a crucial time as Europe tackles Ukraine aid issues and considers the implications of a potential second term for former U.S. President Donald Trump. Additionally, his address coincides with the upcoming visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping, who seeks to forge closer ties between Europe and China.

Drawing comparisons to his previous speech on strategic autonomy, Macron highlighted the transformation of Europe over the past seven years, particularly in responding to challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and Russian aggression in Ukraine. He stressed the necessity of building a more integrated, better defended, and competitive European Union that is not overly reliant on the United States.

Macron underscored that Europe can no longer solely depend on the United States for its security, noting that the United States prioritizes its own interests and the China question, with Europe being a lower priority. He envisions a future where Europe can defend itself against Russia without American assistance, which would require strengthening the defense sector.

To achieve this goal, Macron called for the establishment of a European academy to train high-ranking military personnel and stressed the need to bolster European industrial production. However, his insistence on purchasing European-made weapons and focusing on French and European interests may face pushback from some European capitals, while his remarks on the Biden administration's policies may raise eyebrows in Washington.

Macron warned that the rules of the game have changed, and if Europe fails to adapt, it risks falling behind. His speech serves as a rallying cry for a stronger, more independent European Union that is capable of asserting its strategic autonomy on the global stage.

As Macron sets the agenda for Europe's future, his proposals will continue to shape the discussions and decisions of EU leaders in the coming months. The European elections in June will provide an opportunity for citizens to express their views on Macron's vision and the future of the European Union.