Emmanuel Macron warns Russia / Hybrid attacks against Europe will not go unanswered

French President Emmanuel Macron warned Russia that hybrid attacks against European countries will not go unanswered, following a meeting with the leaders of political parties at the Élysée Palace. Macron said Moscow would be making a mistake if it continued such actions, but did not specify the nature of the European response, arguing that deterrence requires maintaining uncertainty over the measures being prepared.

The French leader cited as an example the recent attempted attack on Leipzig Airport, which he said had allegedly been prepared by Russia’s military intelligence service, the GRU. The operation reportedly failed because of a malfunction in the mechanism used, but it could have caused casualties and significant material damage.

Macron said the aim of these actions is to intimidate Europeans and reduce support for Ukraine. He stressed that France and its allies would not be deterred and that Europe’s security depends on the course of the war in Ukraine.

The French president called for increased vigilance and the preparation of measures to protect cities, critical infrastructure and defense industry facilities. The government in Paris is already working on a plan to protect against drone attacks.