Macron warns of intensified Russian hybrid threat, orders protection plan

French President Emmanuel Macron said at a press conference in the Élysée Palace that the Russian hybrid threat against Europe and France has intensified in recent weeks, and he asked the government to prepare a plan to protect critical infrastructure and sensitive defence industry sites.

Macron told journalists after meeting party leaders to discuss security implications of the wars in the Middle East and Ukraine that the intent of recent actions is to intimidate and weaken support for Ukraine, but that France will not be deterred.

He cited a recent drone attack on Leipzig airport in Germany that has been blamed on Russia and referenced remarks from Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk alleging planned drone and missile strikes against Poland and other countries on NATO’s eastern flank.

Macron said the government has been tasked with protecting the most sensitive defence industry and technology sites against drone and cyberattacks and that the attacks will not go unanswered.

He added that France will convene a G7 meeting on energy in the coming weeks to strengthen cooperation, avoid tensions among partners and consider options regarding strategic gas reserves with the European Commission.

Liberal News Analysis: What Does This Development Mean?

Macron framed recent incidents as part of an intensified Russian hybrid campaign aimed at intimidating European support for Ukraine. He responded by directing government action to bolster protection of critical infrastructure and defence-related sites and by initiating diplomatic coordination on energy among G7 members.

Quick Glance: What You Need to Know

• French President Emmanuel Macron warned of an intensified Russian hybrid threat against Europe and France.
• Macron ordered preparations to protect critical infrastructure and sensitive defence industry and technology sites from drone and cyberattacks.
• France will host a G7 meeting on energy to discuss cooperation and strategic gas reserves.