[SampleMan]

You’re assuming that the French would be considering themselves one of the many countries of the EU. That is not the French view.

The French have replaced their faded glory of being a super power in centuries past, with the modern delusion that they are now the LEADER of all Europe.

To the French, those EU troops are honorary guards from throughout their empire.

[surely_you_jest]

To the French, those EU troops are honorary guards from throughout their empire.

All things about the EU considered, this perception is at least partially correct.