Macron says 'CIA did not ​inform French services' of possible Russian drone attacks

French President Emmanuel Macron has formally refuted a recent media report alleging that the United States Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) provided intelligence to European governments regarding potential Russian drone attacks originating from the Mediterranean. During a high-profile, primetime television interview on Thursday, Macron addressed claims published by the Spanish newspaper El Mundo, which suggested that the CIA had alerted nations including France, Spain, and Italy to the threat of maritime-launched drone operations. The French leader was categorical in his denial, stating, "We can refute this information. The CIA did not inform the French services of such an attack." His comments align with similar dismissals from Italian officials, including Defence Minister Guido Crosetto, who also rejected the validity of the reported intelligence alert. While Macron dismissed the specific report, he acknowledged the broader, persistent reality of Russian hybrid warfare, noting that Russia views Europe as the "strategic depth of Ukraine" and that the risk of such hostile actions remains a serious concern for the continent. Beyond the immediate security discourse, the interview served as a platform for Macron to announce a significant shift in French military posture in the Middle East. He confirmed that France will deploy military assets, including personnel, radar systems, and advanced defense infrastructure, to the Saudi Arabian port city of Yanbu. This deployment is intended to bolster the protection of critical energy infrastructure against ongoing threats, specifically citing attacks by Yemen's Houthi rebels. The move underscores France's commitment to regional stability and the security of global energy supply chains, even as the nation navigates complex security challenges closer to home. The dual focus of the interview—addressing the specter of Russian aggression in Europe while simultaneously reinforcing French military presence in the Red Sea—highlights the multifaceted nature of France's current foreign and defense policy. By clarifying the status of intelligence cooperation with the U.S. while asserting a proactive stance in the Middle East, the Elysée Palace aims to maintain a balance between transparency regarding external threats and the projection of military strength in volatile regions. As European nations continue to grapple with the evolving tactics of hybrid warfare, the incident serves as a reminder of the sensitivity surrounding intelligence sharing and the constant need for vigilance against potential sabotage or asymmetric attacks.