Macron's new strategy: is France moving towards a military escalation with Russia?
France's Macron made a shocking statement at the latest summit on Ukraine, saying that the possibility of sending ground troops to Ukraine "should not be ruled out." The statement raised concerns about whether France is embroiling itself and NATO in a military escalation with Russia.
Escalating stress and dilemma
Macron's comments appear to be in response to calls for more decisive action in Europe. As the war of attrition on the battlefield in Ukraine continues, both sides are facing shortages of ammunition and personnel. Ukraine's conscription policy of Zelensky has also been questioned, with the average age of Ukrainian soldiers being as high as 43 years old, which makes it difficult to continue operations on the battlefield.
At the same time, Trump's possible re-election creates uncertainty about NATO's future and U.S. nuclear safeguards. This uncertainty has sparked panic in several European countries, with fears that the conflict with Russia could escalate further.
Macron's strategic shift
It is worth noting that Macron tried to engage in dialogue with Putin before the outbreak of the war and stressed that Russia should not be humiliated. However, over time, his position seems to have shifted. Now, he appears to be seeking to lead the most radical anti-Moscow group, offering to "defeat" Russia and hinting at the possibility of sending French ** teams into the war.
This strategic shift has sparked speculation about Macron's motives. Is it to divert attention from the terrible situation at home? Or is it trying to take advantage of the leadership vacuum in Europe and the uncertainty in Washington to take the leadership of the Western world, or at least Europe? These doubts make the risk of escalation of the war all the more real.
Preparation and choice in France
Providing assistance to an attacked democratic neighbor is certainly justified, but sending troops into the battlefield is a completely different game. This is tantamount to an open war with a nuclear power. Is France ready for this? Moreover, as a country that likes to call itself a "balancing power", should France strive to resolve the issue through negotiations rather than opt for military escalation? After all, a diplomatic solution to the conflict, as envisaged by the warring parties in Istanbul a year ago, is always the wiser option.
Conclusion
Macron's statement has undoubtedly brought new challenges and uncertainties to Europe and NATO. In the face of war attrition, demographic dilemma, and external pressures, whether France should opt for military escalation remains a question worth pondering. It is hoped that European countries will remain calm and reasonable, resolve the current predicament through diplomatic means, and avoid a military conflict that could have catastrophic consequences.