France’s president said Europe was ready to defend freedom and the rule of law “at the cost of blood” on Monday, calling for more military partnerships.

“The message we send to the world is this: Yes, peace is our goal. Yes, we cherish freedom and the rule of law. And yes, we stand ready to fight to defend them. Always, and at the cost of blood if necessary,” Macron said during a speech to the country’s armed forces, hours before a meeting of allies backing Ukraine in its war with Russia.

His speech has historical echoes, “the cost of blood” evoking a language of military duty often associated with Napoleon Bonaparte and France’s long military tradition. The discourse also has American strategic echoes, as France could become Europe’s military leader if the U.S. pulls back on its continental defense support.

Macron’s push for a stronger European defense industry also reflects a historic contest between France and the UK over influence in Europe, with both powers seeking to define the continent’s security role in a period of uncertainty over U.S. commitments. Last week, the UK announced at the NATO summit in Ankara that it will lead a coalition of around a dozen European countries to step up funding for the next generation of long-range missiles designed to protect Europe.

During his speech to the armed forces, Macron has urged more defense partnerships in order to strengthen the European military-industrial base. The French president’s call comes after France and Germany abandoned a joint fighter jet program last month due to disagreements between the companies involved.

“Despite the failure of the Future Combat Air System (FCAS), which I deeply regret, we would be wrong to stop there,” he said in a speech to the military. “Let us move forward with multiple projects that allow us to make Europe an industrial reality.”