Overview
- Emmanuel Macron will speak from the Élysée on Wednesday, December 31 at 20:00, with aides framing the remarks as action‑oriented rather than retrospective.
- The address is expected to emphasize Ukraine and European defense, with Paris hosting a Coalition of Volunteers meeting in early January to finalize security guarantees that could include post‑ceasefire force deployments in Ukraine.
- On the domestic front, he plans to spotlight a voluntary national military service, tighter regulation of social networks for minors, and the return of end‑of‑life legislation to Parliament, with Senate examination slated for early January.
- His scope for progress remains limited by record unpopularity, a fragmented National Assembly after the failed 2024 dissolution, and an unresolved 2026 finance bill, prompting a renewed appeal for political compromise.
- Commentators foresee modest viewership and note unfulfilled pledges from last year, including a promised referendum and nationwide consultation that never materialized.