As France's presidential runoff approaches, far-right candidate Marine Le Pen's proposal to withdraw from NATO's integrated military command has ignited fierce discussions about the alliance's role in Europe. The April 24 second-round vote pits incumbent Emmanuel Macron against Le Pen, who vows to repeat Charles de Gaulle's 1966 move distancing France from NATO's military structure.
Le Pen argues that leaving the U.S.-led alliance's command framework would strengthen French sovereignty, recalling the historic decision that saw NATO headquarters expelled from Paris until France rejoined under Nicolas Sarkozy in 2009. However, analysts note the geopolitical landscape has shifted dramatically since then, with ongoing conflicts like the Ukraine crisis reshaping European security priorities.
A Lyon resident told CGTN: 'Energy prices are rising, and security suddenly feels fragile. We need to think carefully about what isolation could mean.' Others expressed skepticism about aligning too closely with any foreign power.
The debate comes as inflation hits 5.1% in France and European leaders navigate strained relations with Russia. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg recently emphasized the alliance's 'unity' amid current challenges, but Le Pen's stance could test this resolve if she secures victory.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
