Emmanuel Macron made a high-profile statement regarding the possibility of rapid mobilization of French troops in the event of Russian aggression against Poland
According to the President of France, his country has all the necessary resources and capabilities to deploy its units on Polish territory within a few days if a threat arises. Macron’s statements were made on May 9 during a joint press conference with the Prime Minister of Poland, Donald Tusk, which served as a platform for discussing European security and strategic intentions amid current geopolitical challenges. The French President emphasized that, in accordance with internal constitutional procedures, defense organization, and established long-term infrastructure, France is capable of quickly and efficiently activating its forces and deploying them on the territory of an ally in a short timeframe. Macron stated: "We have a clear action plan and sufficient resource mobilization to respond instantly if necessary; just a matter of days, and French troops will be in Poland." As proof of its ability, the French side cited the rapid deployment of military units to Eastern European countries in 2022. Specifically, he mentioned that five days after the start of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February last year, French troops were already stationed in Romania. Macron underlined that no other European country could boast such speed and scale of mobilization. Talking about the prospects for strengthening security cooperation, the French leader stressed that France has an indisputable capacity for response, and in the event of escalation in Eastern Europe, its units will be in the Polish region in the shortest possible time, serving as an additional factor of deterrence for potential aggressors. At the same time, he emphasized that France is closely monitoring the situation and maintaining close contacts with partners in the European Union and NATO to respond promptly to changes on the political map of the region. Currently, the situation in the region remains tense amid hours-long consultations among high-ranking diplomats and military officials. Earlier on Friday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported on meetings of the so-called "Coalition of the Resolute"; however, the details regarding the formats and participants were not clearly defined. Macron confirmed that a summit within this "coalition" will be held in Kyiv on May 10, aiming to develop joint strategies for supporting Ukraine in its fight against Russian armed aggression. The statements by the leaders of France and Poland indicate an increase in trans-Atlantic cooperation and a desire among European countries to act quickly and effectively in response to any new security challenges. According to Macron, France is ready to stand up for its partners in the toughest moments, emphasizing that its military potential allows for the rapid activation of the appropriate contingent. This also serves as a signal to Moscow — European countries are not standing still and intend to strengthen their defenses and their ability to react swiftly to any acts of aggression.