The theft of a wax replica of Emmanuel Macron from a Paris museum by Greenpeace activists underscores tensions surrounding France's economic ties to Russia amidst the ongoing Ukraine conflict. The incident highlights the activists' demand for stronger actions against Russian trade during a time of heightened geopolitical scrutiny.
Activists Steal Macron's Waxwork to Protest Continuation of Trade with Russia
Activists Steal Macron's Waxwork to Protest Continuation of Trade with Russia
Greenpeace activists stage a dramatic protest against President Macron's stance on French companies operating in Russia, by stealing his wax figure from a Paris museum and displaying it outside the Russian embassy.
In a bold act of protest, environmental activists from Greenpeace stole a waxwork figure of French President Emmanuel Macron from the Grevin Museum in Paris. Disguised as tourists, they managed to gain access to the museum before changing their appearance, covering the statue with a blanket, and exiting through an emergency exit, according to a police source cited by AFP.
The wax figure later appeared outside the Russian embassy in Paris, where activists showcased their discontent with Macron's approach to French companies that continue to engage in business with Russia following its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Greenpeace's head, Jean-Francois Julliard, criticized the French government's "double game," asserting that Macron represents this inconsistency. He called on Macron to lead European efforts to halt trade with Russian firms.
Activists captured footage of the wax figure being placed outside the embassy, along with signs denouncing Macron's policies. The waxwork, valued at approximately €40,000 (£33,765; $45,674), has yet to be recovered, and no arrests had been made as of the latest reports.
Despite France being an outspoken ally of Ukraine and a key player in facilitating negotiations for a ceasefire, the country has faced scrutiny for its continued imports of gas and fertilizer from Russia. Analysis indicated that since the onset of the invasion in 2022, Russia has reaped substantial profits—exceeding €883bn (£740bn; $973bn)—from fossil fuel exports, with a notable portion flowing from EU member states, including France.
In light of recent developments, Macron has reiterated the country's commitment to providing military aid to Ukraine and has imposed sanctions against Russia. However, he has also hinted at the possibility of imposing further sanctions should Russia fail to engage constructively in negotiations aimed at ending the conflict. With calls for increased accountability growing louder, this incident exemplifies the pressing tension between environmental and geopolitical responsibilities.
