Macron Warns of Russian Hybrid Attacks, Seeks Energy Defense Boost

French President Emmanuel Macron warns of Russian hybrid attacks and seeks to step up energy defense.

Macron gathered the nation's major party presidential candidates at the presidential palace. This meeting addresses public anger and energy threats due to rising fuel costs from the wars in Iran and Ukraine. Macron ordered measures to shield France's key infrastructure and defense industry sites from increasing Russian hybrid attacks. He requested the preparation of a plan to protect their critical infrastructure.

Macron stated that the threat of hybrid attacks by Russia against Europe and France has intensified. He also announced that France would convene a G7 meeting dedicated to energy in the coming weeks. The G7 meeting will consider options for a possible release or unlocking of strategic reserves. Macron condemned what he called Russia's intent to intimidate and undermine efforts to support the Ukrainians.

He stated that Russia's hybrid attacks against European countries will not go unanswered and it would be a mistake for Moscow to continue them. The French leader brought together presidential candidates and party leaders at the Elysée Palace on Friday for a confidential briefing on the evolving threat. Suspicious attacks and incidents continue to multiply across Europe.

Macron's announcement came after meeting in Paris with political party leaders to discuss recent developments. The meeting also covered the wars in the Middle East and Ukraine and their consequences for France's security and energy amid soaring fuel prices.