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Macron Warns Europe to Brace for More U.S. Hostility, Urges Economic Reforms

French President Emmanuel Macron calls on the EU to learn from the "Greenland moment," strengthen its global power, and prepare for future tensions with the U.S. and China.
2026-02-10
Macron Warns Europe to Brace for More U.S. Hostility, Urges Economic Reforms

French President Emmanuel Macron has warned that Europe must prepare for continued hostility from the United States and use it as a wake-up call to strengthen the EU’s global position. In an interview with several European newspapers, Macron referred to the “Greenland moment” — a recent flashpoint in transatlantic relations — as evidence that European unity and economic reform are essential.

Tensions with the U.S.

Macron said the EU should not interpret a pause in tensions over Greenland, trade, or technology as a permanent shift. He criticized the Trump administration as “openly anti‑European,” seeking the bloc’s “dismemberment,” and predicted more friction over digital regulation.

“The U.S. will, in the coming months — that’s certain — attack us over digital regulation,” Macron warned, noting potential tariffs if Europe’s Digital Services Act targets tech companies.

Strengthening Europe’s Global Power

Macron urged EU leaders to use an upcoming summit in Belgium to accelerate long-delayed economic reforms. He highlighted the need for:

  • Common European borrowing: To allow large-scale investment and reduce reliance on the U.S. dollar.
  • “Made in Europe” strategy: Setting minimum European content in locally manufactured goods to strengthen competitiveness.
  • Strategic resilience: Building Europe’s capacity to withstand pressure from both the U.S. and China.

“We have the Chinese tsunami on the trade front, and minute-by-minute instability on the American side. These two crises amount to a profound shock — a rupture for Europeans,” Macron said.

Macron emphasized that Europe should pursue “protection, not protectionism,” favoring European preference in economic strategy without isolating from global markets.

Challenges Ahead

Previous French proposals for permanent joint debt issuance have faced opposition from frugal northern EU states, particularly Germany. Macron argued that joint European debt and stronger economic institutions would signal Europe’s reliability and democratic strength to global investors, especially as U.S. credibility is questioned.

The summit is expected to address these proposals, balancing national interests with broader European strategic ambitions, amid mounting pressure to assert EU autonomy on the world stage.