Leading German center-right newspaper FAZ comments on the virtual meeting between Macron and Putin. Thread with my translation. faz.net/aktuell/politi…
„Macron’s sympathetic course towards Russia is obvious, yet with his ‚confidence-building' talks he is increasing the irritation among his European Nato partners and in the EU.“
„In Berlin, Macron rapprochement with Putin must cause concern as well. A week and a half ago, the Federal Prosecutor accused the Russian government of murder. Merkel said at the weekend that Russia uses 'hybrid warfare, the means of destabilization' as an instrument."
"France „should not forget solidarity with its allies. The EU has just extended the Russia sanctions related to the war in eastern Ukraine. If Macron continues, it will look as if he would advance Putin’s agenda“ („sich von Putin vor den Karren spannen“ lassen)."
„How could, under such circumstances, a joint European policy still be pursued with France?“
My take-away: After 3,5 years of Trump, the fault lines in Europe are becoming even more visible, not least thanks to Putin’s skilful tactics. The question remains: (How) can Europe produce foreign and security leadership?
