Macron pushes defence goals amid Russia threat
Macron pushes France toward a major defence spending surge
President Emmanuel Macron called for a sharp increase in France’s military budget, asserting that European freedom was under a danger never seen since the end of World War II.
Key points from Macron’s speech
- Macron urged a 3.5‑billion‑euro rise in the defence budget for 2026, followed by an additional three‑billion‑euro boost in 2027.
- He stressed that the nation must “be powerful to be feared” and that all government departments should be “present at their battle stations.”
- Macron warned that if France keeps the same pace, it will be overtaken tomorrow.
Defence officials weigh the global threat landscape
Defence Chief Thierry Burkhard highlighted Russia as the “durable” threat to Europe, describing Ukraine as the frontline for determining tomorrow’s European order. He also cautioned of the waning U.S. commitment, cyber risks, misinformation and potential terror attacks. Burkhard noted that France is viewed by Russia as its “main adversary in Europe.”
Defence Minister Sébastien Lecornu added that France must “make a new effort” to “depend on nobody” in the future. He outlined urgent needs such as ground‑to‑air defences, ammunition, electronic warfare and space capabilities, and expressed concern about falling behind in disruptive technologies like artificial intelligence and quantum technology.
France’s defence budget trajectory
The defence budget has already risen sharply since Macron took office, from 32.2 billion euros in 2017 to 50.5 billion euros today, and is projected to reach 67 billion euros by 2030. Prime Minister François Bayrou has declared the defence budget “sacrosanct” and exempt from cuts.
Potential fiscal implications
Should the spending boost be confirmed, it could threaten France’s efforts to cut deficits and reduce debt, amid pressure from the EU Commission to impose stricter fiscal discipline. The debt servicing alone will cost the Treasury 62 billion euros this year.
NATO allies ramp up commitments
Several NATO countries are increasing military spending after the alliance’s members agreed last month to spend 5 % of GDP on security.
- Britain aims to increase its defence budget to 2.5 % of GDP by 2027, and to 3.0 % after 2029.
- Germany plans to reach a defence budget of 162 billion euros by 2029, equivalent to 3.5 % of its GDP.
- Poland already dedicates 4.7 % of GDP to defence.
Strategic shift under Macron
Macron underscored the need to revise programming and strategy today because of the changing nature of risks. He has also hinted at a possible mobilisation drive for young people, offering them the “opportunity to serve” and fostering national cohesion amid global crises.
