Macron urges Europe to chart its own course amidst US-China tensions.

French President Emmanuel Macron's comments on Europe's role in the US-China conflict over Taiwan have sparked criticism and anger on both sides of the Atlantic. Macron said Europe should not become a "vassal" and must avoid being drawn into any conflict between the US and China over Taiwan. While his comments reaffirmed his long-term goal of "strategic autonomy" for Europe, his remarks on Taiwan stoked anger and alarm. Macron's interview was seen as a parting gift to Xi and an attempt to boost his poll ratings in France by emulating De Gaulle.