In a bold address to the French armed forces in Paris, President Emmanuel Macron declared that Europe is facing its most significant threats since World War II, particularly from Russia's ongoing aggression. As tensions rise, he proposed a substantial increase in France's defense budget, calling for an additional €3.5 billion (£3 billion) next year and another €3 billion by 2027, aiming to double the military budget to €64 billion three years ahead of schedule.
Macron stressed that current geopolitics demand increased military readiness, urging for a stronger Europe in the face of “imperialist policies.” Citing conflicts like the ongoing war in Ukraine since February 2022, he contended, “To be free in this world, you must be feared. To be feared, you must be powerful.”
This speech coincided with discussions among NATO members about increasing defense spending targets from 2% to 5% of GDP, with the UK also embarking on a defense review. As France gears up for significant changes, the military chief Thierry Burkhard highlighted that Russia views France as its primary adversary in Europe, framing Ukraine’s situation as central to Europe’s future security landscape.
