French President Emmanuel Macron has declared that France is now supplying “two-thirds” of Ukraine’s intelligence needs, positioning Paris as the primary provider and surpassing the United States in this critical area. This significant shift in Western support dynamics was announced during a New Year’s address to the French military, suggesting a potential recalibration of US involvement in the ongoing conflict.
A Shift in Intelligence Dominance
Macron stated that while Ukraine was “overwhelmingly dependent on American intelligence capacity” a year ago, France now provides the majority. This assertion suggests a notable change in the intelligence-sharing relationship between Kyiv and its Western allies. The French president’s remarks imply that the United States may have reduced its intelligence contributions, a move that could have significant implications for Ukraine’s war efforts.
Context and Unanswered Questions
The US had previously suspended intelligence sharing and aid to Ukraine in March 2025, during an attempt by the Trump administration to negotiate a ceasefire. Although the suspension was lifted after a week, it has remained unclear whether the Pentagon has maintained its previous level of intelligence support. Reports from The New York Times had previously highlighted an exceptionally close intelligence-sharing relationship between the US and Ukraine, with officials from both nations reportedly working in the same facilities to coordinate military actions.
It is not precisely clear how Macron arrived at the “two-thirds” figure. His statement did not specify whether this referred to the intelligence provided by all of Ukraine’s foreign partners or the total intelligence utilized by Ukraine’s forces. Neither the Élysée Palace nor the French defense ministry have provided official comments on the president’s claims. Similarly, Ukraine’s defense intelligence agency and the Pentagon have not yet responded to requests for clarification.
France’s Broader Strategic Ambitions
Macron’s emphasis on France’s leading role in intelligence sharing aligns with his broader objective of positioning Paris as a key military leader in Europe, particularly as the Trump administration has signaled a desire to reduce American engagement in the continent. France has also reportedly assisted Ukraine in rebuilding its forces and provided security guarantees.
This development comes as European NATO members and the US have committed to forming a multinational, “European-led” force to offer reassurances to Ukraine and deter further Russian aggression. Macron stated that this collective effort signals Europe’s readiness to sustain Ukraine’s resistance and maintain peace.