At the UN, Emmanuel Macron calls for a stand against Russia
French President Emmanuel Macron, on the first day of the United Nations General Assembly, September 20, 2022. REUTERS - BRENDAN MCDERMID
Text by: Valérie Gas Follow
2 mins
Emmanuel Macron gave a virulent speech at the UN platform.
His target: Russia, responsible for the war in Ukraine, against which the French head of state called on the international community to unite in the name of the values of the United Nations Charter.
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With our special correspondent in New York,
“
Today we have to make a choice, that of war or peace
,” declared the French president from the outset.
At the UN podium,
Emmanuel Macron
put the issues on the table and, bluntly, attacked
Russia
.
“
One thing is sure and certain, as I speak to you, there are Russian troops in Ukraine.
And as far as I know, there are no Ukrainian troops in Russia, it's a fact and we all have to look at it
”.
The French head of state chose a tone of pugnacity to denounce a war whose consequences go beyond the borders of Europe: “
The longer this war lasts, the more it becomes a threat to peace in Europe, and that of the world.
What we have been witnessing since February 24 is a return to the age of imperialisms and colonies
”.
► To read also: UN General Assembly: Vladimir Putin, the great absentee
On the strength of this diagnosis, Emmanuel Macron asks the countries of the South to choose their side.
“
Some countries, represented here, have remained in a form of neutrality with regard to this war.
But I want to tell you with the utmost clarity today, who would mimic the fight of the non-aligned, by refusing to express themselves clearly, is mistaken and taking historical responsibility
,” he said.
Emmanuel Macron also proposes a reform of the Security Council which limits the right of veto in the event of mass crime.
Another direct message to Russia.
► To read also: What to remember from the first day of the UN General Assembly
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