Macron calls on EU leaders to boycott US weapons

French President Emmanuel Macron has urged European leaders to stop purchasing American weapons and instead prioritize European defense firms.

A longtime advocate for European defense industry independence, Macron said that he wants to convince other European nations to follow suit and buy locally.

"My intention is to go and convince European states that have become accustomed to buying American," he said in an interview with French media, including Nice-Matin and Le Parisien.

"Those who buy Patriot should be offered the new-generation Franco-Italian SAMP/T. Those who buy the F-35 should be offered the Rafale. That's the way to increase the rate of production," he argued.

His remarks come as NATO members become increasingly dependent on American military equipment.

This month, the Netherlands and Belgium announced their purchase of U.S. F-35 fighter jets, while Portugal is reportedly reconsidering its stance due to Washington’s position within NATO.

Macron also called on French defense companies to reduce bureaucracy and costs to make European alternatives more competitive.

(QG - Source : Politico / Le Parisien - Picture : © Unsplash)