Macron presses case for Europe defense

French environment minister quits in blow to govt on green issues

PARIS - French President Emmanuel Macron pushed on Monday for Europe to take more responsibility for its own defense, saying the continent's security shouldn't rely so much on the United States and could even include discussions with Russia.

In a speech to French ambassadors in Paris, Macron said: "Europe cannot rely on the United States only for its security. It's up to us to meet our responsibilities and guarantee our security, and therefore European sovereignty."