During a press conference following a meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius addressed rumors surrounding the potential failure of the future European combat aircraft, known as FCAS. He emphasized that the project has not failed yet, and discussions between key leaders—including German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron—are ongoing. Pistorius reassured that they have not reached a critical point in the project's development and are still committed to making it a success.

Pistorius further stated that even if the FCAS project were to falter, it would not signify the breakdown of European defense cooperation or the longstanding friendship between France and Germany. This statement reflects a level of confidence in the underlying collaborative defense initiatives that span the continent, suggesting that while the FCAS is significant, it is not the sole indicator of success or failure for European military collaboration.

French President Emmanuel Macron echoed these sentiments, asserting that the FCAS project is still viable and remains a strong initiative for European defense. His comments further reinforce a commitment to collaborative defense efforts in Europe, despite challenges that may arise in specific projects. The ongoing discussions among these leaders indicate a resilience in the face of potential setbacks, underlining the importance of continued cooperation in defense matters in the broader European context.