Macron Criticizes EU-US Trade Deal, Calls for Stronger European Sovereignty

French President Emmanuel Macron voiced strong criticism of the recent trade framework agreed upon by the European Union and the United States. According to sources close to the French government, Macron addressed ministers on Wednesday, saying the deal shows that the EU is still not strong or bold enough in negotiations, particularly with the U.S. He emphasized that for a nation or bloc to be truly free, it must be feared or respected in global diplomacy. In his words, “To be free, you need to be feared. We were not feared enough.”

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The agreement, announced on Sunday, is aimed at improving trade relations between the EU and the United States. While the deal offers improved visibility and some benefits for French businesses, Macron believes that it lacks strategic weight. He sees it as a preliminary agreement rather than a finished or strong outcome. His remarks reflect ongoing concerns in France and other parts of Europe about the EU’s negotiating power, especially with major global players like the U.S. under leadership such as that of Donald Trump, known for his aggressive trade policies. Macron’s criticism is a call to make the EU a more formidable force on the international stage.

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Despite acknowledging that the deal could benefit French businesses in the short term, Macron urged his government and EU partners not to be complacent. He views the trade framework as only a starting point. Macron stressed that the EU must urgently speed up its efforts to become more sovereign and competitive. This includes reducing reliance on non-European powers and building stronger internal economic and political systems.

He emphasized the importance of making Europe a power that can defend its interests without needing to compromise under pressure from others. His message aligns with ongoing French advocacy for "strategic autonomy"   the idea that Europe must stand on its own in matters of defense, technology, energy, and trade. Macron’s statement is also a signal to both European allies and external partners that France wants a more assertive EU on the world stage. His position could influence future EU discussions and may add pressure to negotiate harder in upcoming rounds of talks with the U.S. and other trading partners.