France’s Political Tumult, Europe’s Strategic Challenges

Join former French Ambassador to the US, Philippe Étienne, and Hoover Senior Fellow H.R. McMaster, as they discuss the rise of the far right, France’s economic challenges, the future of European security, and the 2027 French presidential election.

Reflecting on the recent wave of protests and social unrest in France, Philippe Étienne examines the sources of growing political polarisation, the pressures of public debt and economic stagnation, and Russia’s efforts to exploit divisions within Western democracies. Étienne and McMaster discuss the war in Ukraine, the future of the transatlantic alliance, Europe’s need to strengthen its defence capabilities, and the strategic challenges posed by China. They also examine Russian influence in Africa, the deteriorating security situation in the Sahel, and the ongoing conflicts and security challenges in the Middle East.

Recorded on October 29, 2026.

ABOUT THE GUEST SPEAKER

Ambassador Philippe Étienne served as French Ambassador to the United States from 2019 to 2023 after serving as President Emmanuel Macron’s diplomatic adviser and G7 and G20 sherpa. He also served as Ambassador to Germany and Romania and Permanent Representative to the European Union, as well as postings in Moscow, Bonn, Belgrade, and Brussels. Ambassador Étienne has taught international affairs at Columbia University, recently published his diplomatic memoir, Le Sherpa, and has served as President of the Paris Peace Forum since April 2026.