France Supports Procurement of European Weapons for Ukraine Over American Alternatives
France opposes the purchase of American weapons to support Ukraine, instead championing the growth of an independent European defense industry.
According to Politico, after former Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte presented an initiative in Washington for the joint purchase of American arms for Ukraine, the proposal garnered backing from the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and four Scandinavian countries. France, however, chose not to join this coalition.
The media notes that Paris remains steadfast in its position, with President Emmanuel Macron emphasizing the importance of bolstering Europe’s defense industrial base and promoting the acquisition of domestically produced weaponry.
Additionally, France is currently facing the need to cut its budget and reduce the national deficit, which complicates any increase in defense spending.
Meanwhile, Germany, one of the main suppliers of weapons to Ukraine, has taken a more pragmatic stance. Given the limited production capacity of European defense companies, Berlin views purchasing American weaponry as the only realistic way to quickly strengthen Ukraine’s defense capabilities.
Specifically, this involves purchasing Patriot missile defense systems, which are becoming increasingly crucial amid intensified Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities.
As Politico notes, Chancellor Merz’s government has acknowledged that cooperation with Washington is currently the most effective way to enhance Ukraine’s security, and therefore, collaboration with the US will continue.
Meanwhile, Germany will continue to collaborate with France and Italy to strengthen the European defense industry, particularly in the development of long-range weapons whose production and maintenance will take place within Europe. Additionally, France has resumed production of the SCALP cruise missiles.
It is important to note that France’s position is closely linked to its strong presence in Europe’s defense sector. France is the only country that supplies over 95% of its own armed forces with domestically developed and produced equipment.
Imported products make up a smaller share and are not considered a strategically important element in maintaining France’s defense capabilities.
It is also worth mentioning that the Czech government has taken a similar stance, announcing that it will not join Trump’s weapons development project. Instead, the Czech Republic plans to continue supporting its own initiative for ammunition supply and rely on its own resources and capabilities.
