French President Emmanuel Macron has issued a stark warning regarding what he describes as a sharp escalation in hostile activities directed at Europe and France by Moscow. Speaking at a press conference at the Elysee Palace on September 18, 2026, the French leader stated that these unconventional tactics have escalated notably over the past few weeks and asserted that the incidents will not go unanswered.
Macron addressed reporters following a series of consultations with domestic political leaders regarding the broader security implications of ongoing armed conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. During these discussions, the focus heavily turned to the vulnerabilities of Western nations facing covert and asymmetric warfare. Western officials have increasingly expressed concern that Moscow is employing non-traditional methods to gauge the resilience of nations backing Kyiv.
Highlighting specific recent security breaches, the French president pointed to a drone incident that occurred the previous month at an airport in Leipzig, Germany, an event that authorities have attributed to Russian involvement. He also referenced recent statements by Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, who cautioned that his nation and other eastern NATO members could face prospective aerial strikes.
Macron asserted that the primary objective behind these operations is to sow fear among Western allies and fracture their resolve to aid Ukraine. He maintained that this strategy would ultimately backfire, emphasizing that French leadership remains undeterred because national security interests are directly tied to the outcome of the conflict in Eastern Europe.
In response to the mounting danger, Macron confirmed that he has directed the French administration to formulate a comprehensive defense strategy. This initiative aims to safeguard vital national infrastructure and secure sensitive defense manufacturing and technological installations from potential cyber intrusions and unmanned aerial vehicle incursions.
Beyond immediate national security measures, the French leader turned his attention to broader economic and geopolitical stability. He announced plans to convene a summit of the Group of Seven industrialized nations specifically to address energy security. Furthermore, discussions regarding continental gas reserves will be brought before the European Commission.
Macron explained that the upcoming G7 summit will serve to bolster international cooperation and prevent friction between member states and key allies. The gatherings will also explore the potential deployment of strategic fuel reserves should energy markets experience severe disruption.
Reporting based on coverage first published by BBC News. Read the original report at BBC News.
