French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France will send military resources to protect Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea port of Yanbu. He made the statement during a primetime television interview on Thursday while discussing global security and energy challenges.
Yanbu serves as a key alternative route for Saudi oil exports. Recent missile attacks from Yemen’s Iran backed Houthis have raised serious concerns about energy transport through this vital waterway. Crude oil prices have already surged because of the threat to the port.
Macron explained that France will deploy soldiers, radar systems and defence systems to the site. He stressed that the move is not meant to draw France into any conflicts. The goal is simply to safeguard the port and keep energy supplies flowing.
The French leader also addressed growing worries about high energy prices at home. He assured the public that France has enough gas and oil reserves as winter approaches. Paris is working hard to prevent any disruption in supply chains.
Macron used the interview to highlight wider security risks facing Europe. He warned that Russia is increasing hostile and criminal acts against European countries. France itself could face similar threats, including possible drone or cyber attacks on critical infrastructure.
He dismissed a Spanish newspaper report claiming the CIA had warned European governments about potential drone attacks from the Mediterranean. Macron said the CIA had not informed French services about any such threat. Still he ordered his government to prepare a plan to protect key facilities across the country.
The president accused Moscow of trying to intimidate Europe and weaken its support for Ukraine. He noted that Russia continues to multiply actions aimed at breaking European resolve. Russia has rejected these claims and called them anti Russian hysteria.
Macron also commented on a possible US ban on diesel exports. He said such a move would be catastrophic for both the global market and the American economy. The White House has denied that any such ban is under consideration.
The interview reflected Macron’s effort to balance domestic energy concerns with France’s role in international security. By offering military support to protect Yanbu port he aims to secure an important energy route while avoiding deeper involvement in regional conflicts. At the same time his strong words about Russia show the growing tension between Europe and Moscow as the conflict in Ukraine continues.
