Macron sees himself and France as a force for good on the world stage. And though his interventions often don't live up to expectations, the statesman persona plays well with French audiences, which helps as he fights for reelection this month. | Analysis
The next day, Putin declared two regions of Ukraine as independent and by the end of the week had sent troops into the country. Ever since the crisis began, Macron has assumed the role of Europe's statesman, willing to talk face-to-face and on the phone multiple times with Putin in a way that other world leaders would be either unwilling or, Macron's supporters believe, unable to do.
The war in Ukraine has fundamentally changed European attitudes to security spending and underscored Europe's over-reliance on Russian energy. It has also reminded those opposed to Putin -- both inside and outside the EU -- of the importance of remaining united in the face of an adversary. For that unity and focus to remain, Europe needs someone who is willing to provide that political leadership and take others with them.
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