Macron’s Pivot on Russia
The French president’s speech last week drew much undeserved criticism. In the Ukraine crisis, Paris may be Washington's most demanding partner, but it is also proving to be its most reliable one.
Frexit Definitely Off the Menu in Presidential Race
Unlike 2017, the upcoming presidential election won’t be about whether France should remain in the EU. But it might turn into a debate about what France should do within it.
It’s Fun to Be a Foreign Correspondent in France
Foreign journalists wield extraordinary influence in France. That’s partly because the foreign media is integral to President Macron’s economic and foreign policy strategy.
France’s New Laissez-faire Approach to Germany
Paris has learned to advance its EU agenda with whatever government emerges in Berlin.
Defying History
French voters often punish their presidents by refusing them reelection. However, Emmanuel Macron’s brand of relatively unideological third way politics seems to resonate with the electorate. His chances of securing a second term look good.
Making Beijing Respect France
French President Emmanuel Macron wants insurance against Chinese hegemony. Therefore, Paris is seeking cooperation with Delhi and Canberra and pushing Berlin to Europeanize economic relations with Beijing.
When Opposites Don’t Attract
The French president is strengthening his military and wants Berlin to do the same. But real “sovereignty” in security is for the future. When it comes to getting stuff done, Emmanuel Macron is betting on the United States rather than Germany.
Macron’s European Identity Politics
The French president wants Europeans to discover their collective identity. However, his particular concept of "Europeanness" risks alienating other EU member states and could lead to misunderstandings.
France’s Brexit Dilemma
French President Emmanuel Macron has been more clear-sighted on Brexit than most European leaders. But now is the time to back down and compromise.
Macron's America
Emmanuel Macron wants Europe to be a geopolitical actor independent from Washington. But that does not mean that he wishes for the United States to drift further toward isolationism.
Hegelian Diplomacy in the Eastern Mediterranean
In their attempt to defuse the confrontation between Ankara and Athens, tactical differences between Germany and France may actually deliver more than speaking with one voice.
France’s Sharpest Critics
The French are self-involved, or so the cliché goes. But they are no chauvinists—just ask the French president.