At a NATO Summit press conference in The Hague, French President Emmanuel Macron called for a stronger European role in defense, stressing that increased investment by European NATO members is essential to building a true European pillar within the alliance.

He emphasized the need for Europe to take greater responsibility for its own security, describing it as both a response to longstanding U.S. expectations and a vital European necessity. Macron advocated for developing a robust European defense industry and innovation base, reducing reliance on external suppliers.

Citing the ongoing Russian threat, including the wars in Georgia, Crimea, and the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Macron reinforced the urgency of European strategic autonomy in defense.