French President Emmanuel Macron. Photo: Collected

PARIS, France, July 13, 2026 (BSS/AFP) - French President Emmanuel Macron said Europe was ready to defend freedom and the rule of law "at the cost of blood" on Monday, during a speech to the country's armed forces.

"The message we send to the world is this: Yes, peace is our goal. Yes, we cherish freedom and the rule of law. And yes, we stand ready to fight to defend them. Always, and at the cost of blood if necessary," Macron said, hours before a meeting of allies backing Ukraine in its war with Russia.