French President Macron recently made some heated remarks in a speech focused on the future of Europe, emphasizing that Europe should move towards independence in defense, energy, and economy, and even warning that relying on the United States may bring serious crises.
These remarks have caused a strong response in Germany, revealing the deep-seated contradictions faced by European countries in their subtle relationship with the United States.
Macron's declaration of independence is not unfounded.
France has always pursued so-called diplomatic autonomy. Since the era of Charles de Gaulle, France has withdrawn from NATO in an attempt to find a middle ground in the shadow of the Cold War.
Now, Macron seems to want to retrace this path. On the one hand, he hopes to maintain good relations between Europe and the United States, and on the other hand, he dreams of strengthening dialogue and cooperation with other regions to ensure the comprehensive independence of French policy.
However, Germany showed exceptional caution in its speech to Macron.
German media has been discussing Macron's speech, arguing that his foreign policy is too idealistic and detached from the reality of international politics.
Some comments even bluntly state that Macron's envisioned ideal Europe constructed through Franco German cooperation is actually a castle in the air.
This criticism not only highlights the differences in German and French strategies towards the United States, but also exposes the differences in history and national interests between the two countries.
Especially in the post World War II European landscape, Germany's position was particularly special.
As a defeated country, Germany has long relied on the defense and security of the United States.
Putin's sharp comments further fanned the flames, condemning Germany as still a vassal of the United States.
Although this kind of language is sharp, there is also some truth to it.
Unlike Germany, France has maintained an independent and autonomous posture since the era of Charles de Gaulle.
There is no permanent US military on its territory, which has become a symbol of distance between France and the United States.
However, Macron's attempt to revive this spirit of independence and autonomy was met with cold reception and even criticism from Germany.
When he emphasized strengthening defense and economic autonomy, Germany felt that his real goal was to push France to the leadership position in Europe.
Although France's military strength cannot be underestimated, Germany's influence dominates in the European economy.
Faced with continuous pressure from the United States and internal conflicts within Europe, Germany seems more willing to maintain the status quo rather than pursue true independence and autonomy.
This conservative attitude is in stark contrast to France's proactive approach.
Although Macron hopes to promote the autonomy process of the entire Europe through cooperation between France and Germany, this expectation is difficult to achieve in the real political chess game.
The path of European autonomy is full of challenges and variables.
Despite Macron's desire to become a new generation of de Gaulle style leaders, the possibility of achieving this grand goal is extremely slim in the current international landscape.
Historical experience has shown that European relations often lean towards hierarchical master-slave relationships rather than equal cooperation.
In such a cultural and historical context, even if Macron harbors a strong desire for reform, his efforts may only be a prolonged and arduous battle, with uncertain outcomes.
This effort towards European autonomy may just be another new chapter in Western drama, and its complexity and difficulty are somewhat ironic.
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