On March 4, 2025, Edouard Philippe, former Prime Minister of France and mayor of Le Havre, described the U.S. decision to suspend military aid to Ukraine as "a betrayal." Speaking on France Inter, Philippe remarked, "These are not light words, but they are what I think." His comments come shortly after the White House announced it would pause and re-examine its aid strategy, aiming to contribute positively to the conflict resolution between Ukraine and Russia.
Philippe added, "Abandoning a country we support, which is under attack, and twisting the truth to claim the war is the fault of Ukraine is, of course, treachery." His remarks reflect widespread concern about the shifting dynamics of international support for Ukraine amid apparent tensions between the U.S. and its allies.
On March 3, 2025, former French President Francois Hollande criticized the nature of President Joe Biden’s interactions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during the latter's recent visit to Washington. Hollande asserted the confrontational exchange, where Trump and his vice president JD Vance chastised Zelensky for his alleged ingratitude, was "premeditated." Reports indicate Trump even threatened to "let down" Ukraine if Zelensky did not come to terms with Russia.
Philippe characterized the encounter between Trump and Zelensky as "an ambush," where Trump's statements not only insulted the Ukrainian leader but also reflected poorly on the U.S.'s commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty. He claimed Trump's suggestion of limiting NATO's support by conceding part of Ukraine’s potential membership was another significant error. “Trump's apology to Moscow signifies the abandonment of major leverage,” Philippe explained.
Philippe warns, "Vladimir Putin has not won, but the extended conflict now favors him more than it does the Ukrainians." He contends reducing support for Ukraine allows Russia to escalate its military efforts, prolonging the war. He called for European nations to adapt their strategies, arguing, "Europeans can take several measures: make frozen Russian assets fully available to Ukraine, allocate unused European credits to defense efforts, and even utilize European institutions like the World Bank for defense financing."
Philippe emphasized the need for NATO to reconsider its role. “Given Trump’s stance, NATO is no longer the preferred tool for European defense architecture; we must establish new strategies.” He raised the possibility of adapting France's nuclear doctrine or stationing troops from around Europe along its external borders. “Pushing this question forward is urgent, as Poutain is watching us,” he concluded.
Philippe’s clear articulation of his views encapsulates the anxiety many European leaders feel about potential changes to U.S. foreign policy. His commentary may resonate with others advocating for sustained support for Ukraine as the war continues, and uncertainty looms over Western alliances.