PARIS: French President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday accused the United States of “gradually turning away” from some of its traditional allies and “breaking free from international rules.” He made the remarks in his annual speech to French ambassadors at the Élysée Palace, urging Europe to protect its own interests amid shifting global dynamics. Macron’s comments followed recent assertive US foreign actions, including the capture of Venezuela’s leader and discussions about Greenland.
Macron warned that multilateral institutions are becoming less effective and said global competition among great powers poses risks to international stability. He stressed that Europe must bolster its regulatory and strategic independence in response to these changes. Analysts say his remarks reflect growing concern in Brussels about US foreign policy directions.
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He also called for stronger European regulation of the technology sector and defended the EU’s Digital Markets Act and Digital Services Act. Macron emphasized the need to safeguard academic independence and protect the flow of information free from domination by major tech algorithms. Critics in Washington have branded these tech rules as coercive toward US social media platforms.
Macron’s speech comes as European leaders seek a coordinated response to recent US actions in the Western hemisphere and broader geopolitical shifts. The French president urged unity among European nations and stressed that protecting shared interests is vital in a changing world order.
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He said Europe must act collectively to defend its values and avoid overdependence on outside powers. Macron’s remarks signal an effort within the EU to strengthen Europe’s voice on global issues and maintain strategic autonomy amid evolving alliances.