EU leaders meet amid French push for 'Buy European' protectionism

French President Emmanuel Macron has proposed a "European preference" in strategic sectors as a counter measure to growing pressures from China, Russia, and the United States. This stance was presented at the Council of the European Union, where leaders converged to address pressing issues on defense, cleantech, and chemicals.

The concept of "European preference" is rooted in historical tensions between France and its European neighbors. For decades, France has sought to assert its dominance within the EU, often at the expense of other member states. Macron's proposal aims to reinvigorate this sentiment, prompting questions about the long-term implications for regional unity.