French President Emmanuel Macron has warned that Europe‘s Freedom is facing a greater threat than at any time since the end of World War Two, citing complex geopolitics and the need for increased defence spending.
In a speech to the armed forces in Paris, Macron said, “We are living in a pivotal moment” and called for France’s defence spending to rise by €3.5 billion next year and by a further €3 billion in 2027. This plan would double France’s military budget by 2027, three years earlier than originally planned, with the budget increasing from €32 billion in 2017 to €64 billion in two years’ time.
Macron emphasized the importance of military strength, stating, “To be free in this world, you must be feared. To be feared, you must be powerful.” He denounced “imperialist policies” and “annexing powers,” referencing the threat from Russia and its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. The French president pledged to strengthen France’s military capabilities, ensuring the country’s freedom and sovereignty.
The head of the French army, Thierry Burkhard, recently stated that Russia views France as its “main adversary in Europe” and poses a “durable” threat to the continent. Burkhard added that the “rank of European countries in tomorrow’s world” is being decided in Ukraine. Macron’s call for increased defence spending is part of a broader effort to address the growing threat posed by Russia and other global challenges.
Nato members have agreed to commit to spending 5% of GDP annually on defence, up from the previous target of 2%. The UK has also announced its own defence review, with Defence Secretary John Healey saying it would send a “message to Moscow”. Macron’s speech highlights the delicate balance between maintaining peace and preparing for potential conflicts, as European leaders navigate the complex geopolitical landscape.