Macron says G7 backs Hormuz reopening, vows more Ukraine support

French President Emmanuel Macron said on Wednesday that G7 leaders unanimously welcomed the agreement reached between Washington and Tehran to end their war and reaffirmed support for restoring maritime traffic through the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

Maritime security initiative

Macron said G7 leaders supported the agreement because it ended "a highly unstable situation" that had produced severe economic consequences. "We reaffirmed that unhindered transit through the Strait of Hormuz is a cornerstone of this agreement," he said, noting that a multinational maritime security initiative developed by Paris and London stood ready to facilitate the resumption of traffic and protect commercial vessels. "Several countries, including France, are prepared to react quickly if requested," Macron added, stating that around 20 countries had already confirmed their willingness to contribute to such an operation.

Ukraine support and Russia sanctions

Macron said support for Ukraine remained "unwavering" and announced additional commitments by G7 leaders to deliver air-defense systems, interceptors and long-range capabilities. "We agreed on the delivery of additional air-defense capabilities, systems and interceptors, as well as long-range capabilities," he said, adding that leaders also committed to helping Ukraine through the coming winter by supporting energy infrastructure and reconstruction efforts. "We committed to increasing pressure on Russia, including through stronger sanctions," Macron stated, noting this marked the first time such convergence had been achieved within the G7 regarding Moscow. He argued that "Ukraine is advancing, resisting, and Russia is retreating."

Global health and economic initiatives

The G7 committed more than $1 billion in emergency funding to respond to the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda, Macron said, pledging support for the development of vaccines and treatments. He also highlighted a first-ever G7 declaration on cancer, measures to strengthen critical mineral supply chains, cooperation on artificial intelligence governance, and new initiatives to combat drug trafficking and migrant smuggling. "Our presidency continues until the end of the year, and we will continue working to implement and finalize these commitments," the French leader said.