Macron says he can’t explain Putin’s motives

The actions of Russian President Vladimir Putin defy rationalization. Such a statement did French President Emmanuel Macron in an interview with CNN.

“I have no rational explanation. It seems to me that this is a combination of resentment, the strategy of hegemony in the region and, I would say, the consequences of the pandemic due to the isolation of Putin,” Macron said.

The French president also commented on Putin’s decision to conduct a partial mobilization in Russia. He called such a step a “mistake”, pointing to a missed opportunity “to embark on the path of peace.”

Macron also said that a few months ago, the Russian president told him that Russia’s actions were a “response” to aggression and provocations from NATO. However, according to the head of France, “it is now clear to everyone that the leader who decided <...> exacerbate the situation is President Putin.”

September 21 Vladimir Putin informed about the beginning of partial mobilization in the country. The call will affect citizens who are in the reserve, served in the Armed Forces, have certain military specialties and relevant experience. Later, Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu clarified that it is planned to mobilize 300,000 people – about 1% of the total resource.

Later, the decision of the Russian president was commented on by the leaders of Western countries. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz called the measure “an act of desperation.” And Macron expressed regret over the announcement of partial mobilization in the Russian Federation. He also said that this decision will increase the “isolation of Russia.”

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