In a bid to mitigate the perceived threats, Macron announced intentions to double France's military budget from €32 billion in 2017 to €64 billion within two years, an adjustment brought forth three years ahead of schedule. His stern remarks emphasized, "To be free in this world, you must be feared. To be feared, you must be powerful," coinciding with the eve of France's national holiday, Bastille Day.
Additionally, Macron highlighted global tensions encompassing nuclear proliferation and significant conflicts, noting the recent US-led operations in Iran and ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan. The strategic shift at NATO, advocating for increased defense funding from 2% to 5% of GDP, further exemplifies growing collective concerns regarding security.
French Chief of Staff Thierry Burkhard characterized Russia as Europe's main adversarial force, asserting that the current conflicts would ultimately determine the standings of European nations on the global stage. The French government will review the proposed budget outlines in the coming days, indicating a robust response to the changing security landscape.
As Europe braces for potential escalation in military engagements, Macron's call for bolstered defense spending reveals a heightened vigilance against threats perceived on the continent’s eastern flank.
Additionally, Macron highlighted global tensions encompassing nuclear proliferation and significant conflicts, noting the recent US-led operations in Iran and ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan. The strategic shift at NATO, advocating for increased defense funding from 2% to 5% of GDP, further exemplifies growing collective concerns regarding security.
French Chief of Staff Thierry Burkhard characterized Russia as Europe's main adversarial force, asserting that the current conflicts would ultimately determine the standings of European nations on the global stage. The French government will review the proposed budget outlines in the coming days, indicating a robust response to the changing security landscape.
As Europe braces for potential escalation in military engagements, Macron's call for bolstered defense spending reveals a heightened vigilance against threats perceived on the continent’s eastern flank.
