French President Warns Against ‘Gangster Tactics’: Powerful Nations Cannot Act Arbitrarily
Paris, April 2, 2026 — French President Emmanuel Macron has strongly criticized the growing trend of powerful countries using threats and coercion in international relations, stating that the world becomes dangerous when nations believe they can act according to their own will.
In a firm statement, Macron declared: “We do not speak the language of gangsterism, but the language of respect.” He warned that a world where stronger countries impose their wishes through force or threats is highly risky and destabilizing.
The French president’s remarks come after U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to impose 200% tariffs on certain countries, including potential trade measures against France and the European Union. Macron appeared to directly address such aggressive economic tactics.
He emphasized that international relations must be based on mutual respect and international law, not on intimidation or unilateral decisions by powerful nations. “Such a world is dangerous,” Macron added, highlighting the need for dialogue and cooperation instead of confrontation.
This statement reflects growing European unease over recent U.S. trade threats and the broader approach to global diplomacy under the current American administration.