Macron: Russia will 'escalate' against Europe over Ukraine support

French President Emmanuel Macron warned on Monday that Russia will seek to escalate against European nations to deter support for Ukraine, telling leaders gathered in Kyiv that NATO members face mounting provocations and calling for a robust posture from allies.

NATO allies face mounting threats

Speaking at a meeting of the Coalition of the Willing in the Ukrainian capital, Macron said: "Russia will try to escalate against European countries in order to deter them from assisting Ukraine." He added: "It's clear that NATO countries will be targeted and the provocations will multiply," calling for a coordinated response from European partners.

Air defense and sanctions push

Macron said France and its partners should accelerate deliveries of air defense interceptors and anti-ballistic missile capabilities to Ukraine, warning that shortages of such systems have "direct consequences on people's lives." He urged allies to prepare new sanctions targeting Russian oil and gas imports and to step up efforts against the so-called shadow fleet used to circumvent sanctions. The French president proposed a ministerial meeting in the coming weeks to coordinate measures and work with partners to increase production capacity in Ukraine.

Security guarantees and preparedness

The French leader said the Coalition of the Willing would conduct a full-scale exercise in October and November to demonstrate operational preparedness for post-hostility scenarios. He also called for continued support for Ukraine's energy sector ahead of winter and faster disbursement of financial assistance to support the country's budget, according to Anadolu Agency.