Greenpeace Activists Steal Macron’s Wax Figure to Protest Russian Ties
On a striking day in Paris, Greenpeace activists made headlines with an audacious act that blended protest and performance art. They stole a wax figure of French President Emmanuel Macron from the renowned Grevin Museum, subsequently placing it in front of the Russian embassy to voice their strong opposition to the ongoing ties between Moscow and Paris.
The Bold Heist
On June 2, 2025, in a well-coordinated operation that seemed straight out of a movie, three individuals—two women and a man—posed as tourists to infiltrate the museum. Reports by the AFP news agency reveal that the group successfully slipped out through an emergency exit with the statue, a work valued at €40,000. Once outside, they transported the figure to the Russian embassy, creating an immediate visual statement that echoed their sentiments about France’s foreign policy.
What’s at Stake?
Jean-Francois Julliard, head of Greenpeace France, articulated the urgency behind the protest. He argues that France is engaged in a "double game." While President Macron publicly supports Ukraine and its fight against Russian aggression, he simultaneously allows French businesses to continue trading with Russia. Julliard emphasized that Macron should have been one of the first leaders to sever ties with Moscow, a stance that reflects Greenpeace’s broader concern for global environmental and political responsibilities.
Macron’s Dual Stance
France has positioned itself as a significant supporter of Ukraine since the onset of the war in 2022. Macron has collaborated with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer to amplify European support for Ukraine, especially given the geopolitical shifts that have occurred, such as the return of Donald Trump to the U.S. presidency. However, the perception that Macron’s actions contradict his rhetoric has put him in a precarious position.
Recent Controversies
In the wake of this protest, Macron has also been in the news for unrelated personal incidents, including a viral video featuring his wife, Brigitte Macron, which sparked commentary even from international figures like Trump. This series of events underscores the scrutiny that Macron faces, not just on an international political front, but also in domestic narratives.
The Broader Context: Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks
As the Greenpeace event unfolded in Paris, significant developments were taking place in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Shortly after a series of drone strikes exchanged between the two nations, direct negotiations for a ceasefire began in Istanbul, Turkey. These discussions were reportedly motivated by increasing pressure from global leaders, including Trump, to bring an end to the war.
Activism as a Form of Expression
The act of stealing Macron’s wax figure exemplifies how environmental activism has evolved into a multifaceted tool for expressing dissent. Through dramatic gestures like this, activists aim to spotlight complex issues that might otherwise remain overshadowed by the noise of global politics. This blend of art and activism challenges observers to confront uncomfortable truths about international relations and environmental policies.
Implications for International Relations
The incident raises questions about the effectiveness and ethics of such protests. While activists often argue that their actions bring much-needed attention to critical issues, critics may claim that methods like these detract from the seriousness of the dialogue. Nevertheless, they undoubtedly spark conversations about significant matters regarding climate change, international trade, and warfare.
Greenpeace’s bold statement in front of the Russian embassy serves as a reminder of the multifaceted nature of activism in today’s political climate, blending the lines between art, environmentalism, and global diplomacy.
