In late February, tensions between Macron and Scholz escalated when Macron suggested sending Western troops to Ukraine while Scholz rejected the use of ground troops from European countries.
Macron later hinted at the need for Europe to show courage, prompting a response from German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius who criticized Macron’s remarks for not contributing to solving the issues in helping Ukraine.
German officials have privately expressed frustration with Macron’s tough talk on Ukraine not being backed up by as much military support as Germany has provided.
The Kiel Institute ranks France as a laggard in military aid to Ukraine, with €640 million compared to Germany’s €17.7 billion. France argues that they provide weapons that are operationally efficient in aiding Ukraine.
Macron postponed his visit to Ukraine amidst tensions with allies over his hawkish rhetoric, with the Elysée Palace announcing the visit will be rescheduled in the next couple of weeks.
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