Macron advocates for European defense over American options

French President Emmanuel Macron is urging European Union nations to choose European-made defense equipment over American options. He aims to reduce reliance on US weapons amid rising tensions with Russia and Ukraine. Macron suggested alternatives like the Franco-Italian SAMP/T missile system and the Rafale fighter jet instead of US products. His comments follow recent purchases of American F-35 jets by Belgium and the Netherlands. He also discussed potential European troop deployments to Ukraine for training and support, while rejecting Russian ceasefire conditions as unacceptable. Additionally, Macron announced plans to reform France's voluntary national service program for youth.