PARIS (AP) — French President Emmanuel Macron announced on Friday that he has instructed his government to devise a comprehensive plan aimed at safeguarding critical infrastructure, particularly sensitive defense industry sites, from increasingly prevalent drone attacks and cyberattacks. This proactive measure comes in response to what Macron described as an intensifying hybrid threat posed by Russia.
During a press conference at the Elysee Palace following discussions with political party leaders, Macron emphasized that the nature of the threat, especially the so-called Russian hybrid threat, has escalated in recent weeks. He specifically pointed to the risks of drone attacks and cyber intrusions targeting France's essential infrastructure. The European Union defines Russian hybrid activities to encompass a range of hostile actions, including sabotage, cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns, and other forms of interference in democratic processes.
In his remarks, Macron asserted that such attacks would provoke a robust response from France and its allies. He accused Moscow of seeking to intimidate European nations, aiming to weaken their unwavering support for Ukraine amidst a protracted conflict. “We are not intimidated,” he declared, underlining the significance of Ukraine’s fight for not only its sovereignty but also the broader security framework of Europe, both now and in the future.
In addition to addressing security concerns, Macron highlighted the ongoing energy crisis exacerbated by conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine, alongside disruptions to maritime shipping in the vital Strait of Hormuz. He revealed plans to convene a meeting of the Group of Seven (G7) in the forthcoming weeks, aimed at coordinating a unified response to the surging energy prices impacting the continent.
Acknowledging the severe burden that escalating energy costs are imposing on households across France, Macron remarked, “The situation is very difficult and distressing for many families.” His comments reflect an awareness of the broader socioeconomic implications of the current energy landscape, which has been significantly influenced by geopolitical tensions and conflicts.
As these multifaceted challenges continue to develop, Macron’s administration is faced with the critical task of navigating national security concerns while addressing the domestic consequences of rising energy prices. This dual focus aims not only to protect critical infrastructure from external threats but also to ensure the welfare of French citizens in a rapidly changing global environment.
