Due to internal political problems, French President Emmanuel Macron has transformed from a supporter of a united Europe into a "poisoner of the general fun." This was reported by the Politico newspaper on October 22.
On the eve of the EU summit in Brussels, which will be held on Thursday, journalists conducted a survey among diplomats and senior officials of the bloc's countries. Most of them agree that Macron's political difficulties and his focus on his personal political legacy are holding up progress in the country.
"This version of Macron is completely focused on internal issues. He is no longer the European champion we once knew," the anonymous diplomat said.
The article notes that Macron has recently rejected several key EU initiatives, including the creation of a "drone wall" to protect airspace in the east of the bloc, simplify the process of admitting new members, as well as requirements for stricter compliance with environmental standards. He is cautious and sometimes irritated when reacting to these proposals, as he fears a negative reaction inside France.
Former French Defense Minister Herve Morin said on October 11 that the political crisis in France could be resolved only if Macron resigned, but not by reappointing the prime minister or dissolving the government. According to him, France is currently unable to carry out normal reforms and develop, and is going through very difficult times in general.
On October 15, it was reported that almost 70% of the French are in favor of holding early presidential elections. At the same time, 31% of respondents called it a "bad idea," while 1% refrained from answering.
