French President Emmanuel Macron tells allied partners that Europe is ready to defend itself and “freedom,” adding that it would do so “with blood, if necessary,” according to two reports about his remarks in Paris. Macron speaks before a meeting described as bringing together more than 25 allies, framed as a show of support for Ukraine and opposition to Russia. The French leader delivers his comments ahead of France’s national public holiday, and his address is also presented as a final speech to the armed forces.
Across the coverage, the meeting in Paris is portrayed as part of an effort to reaffirm support for Kyiv and to coordinate pressure on Russia. Both sources link Macron’s rhetoric to a broader push for stronger European defence, including readiness to act if necessary. No details are provided in the excerpts about specific new military commitments, but the accounts agree on the central themes: enhanced European defence projects and continued allied backing for Ukraine, alongside a more forceful stance toward Russia.
