The Guardian view on Macron’s state visit: a renewed entente cordiale is good for France, Britain and Europe | Editorial
Guardian1 day
Macron Begins 3-Day UK State Visit
Above: The Prince and Princess of Wales as well as the French President and First Lady on July 8, 2025. Image copyright: The Prince and Princess of Wales via X
The Spin
Pro-Europe narrative
Macron's visit marks a crucial step in post-Brexit relations. After years of tension, Starmer's entente restoration signals a united continent. Facing Putin's aggression and Trump's indifference, these nuclear powers must forge a coalition of the willing that transcends nationalism. Aside from the glitz and the pageantry, Macron's visit is a welcome reminder that Europe must work together in lockstep.
Establishment-critical narrative
Macron's visit is but a mask for failure. Once promising to transcend politics, Macron has become a lame duck since his election gamble left France ungovernable. Meanwhile, Starmer's "reset" is meaningless to the British public, with the prime minister unable to secure a deal to end the Channel migrant chaos. Both weakened leaders are using diplomatic theatre to distract from domestic collapse.