French President Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday warned against a drift towards a rules-free global order, saying the European Union (EU) should not submit to “the law of the strongest” as geopolitical tensions rise, including with the United States.
Speaking at the World Economic Forum’s annual meeting in Davos, Macron said it was “staggering” that the EU was being forced to consider using its anti-coercion instrument against the US, underscoring growing strains in transatlantic relations.
Without naming him directly, Macron’s remarks came amid threats and policy moves by US President Donald Trump, including comments about taking over Greenland and proposals to create and lead a new global “Board of Peace.”
“The world is experiencing a shift away from rules and international law,” Macron said, warning of a return to “a world without rules, where international law is trampled underfoot and where the only law that seems to matter is that of the strongest.” He added that what he described as “imperial ambitions” were resurfacing.
Macron reiterated that France and Europe remained committed to national sovereignty, independence, and the United Nations and its charter. He cautioned against what he called new forms of imperialism and colonialism, saying the current moment demanded cooperation rather than coercion.
Calling on global leaders and businesses to refocus on shared challenges, Macron said efforts should be centred on growth, peace and climate action. “We want peace. We want growth. We want climate and invest ..
