French President Emmanuel Macron has warned that Europe faces its most significant threat since the end of World War Two and announced plans to dramatically increase France’s defence spending in response to rising global instability.

“We are living in a pivotal moment,” Macron said in a speech to the armed forces in Paris, noting that “liberty in Europe is under greater threat than at any point in the past 80 years.”

France’s defence budget, which stood at €32 billion in 2017, is set to double by 2027 under Macron’s new plan three years earlier than originally scheduled. The president announced that defence spending will rise by €3.5 billion next year and increase by a further €3 billion in 2027, bringing the total to €64 billion.

The increase still requires approval from the French government, but Macron emphasised the urgency, citing Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and what he described as the resurgence of “imperialist policies” and “annexing powers.”

“To be free in this world, you must be feared. To be feared, you must be powerful,” Macron said, delivering his remarks on the eve of France’s Bastille Day celebrations.

He warned of a “return of nuclear power” dynamics and noted rising tensions worldwide, including the US airstrikes in Iran, ongoing hostilities between India and Pakistan, and what he called the “ups and downs” of American support for Ukraine.

His comments come as NATO members recently committed to raising their defence spending to 5% of GDP more than double the previous 2% target. The UK has also launched its own defence review, with Defence Secretary John Healey saying it aims to send “a message to Moscow.”

French army chief Thierry Burkhard echoed Macron’s concerns, stating on Friday that Russia now sees France as its “main adversary in Europe.” He added that Russia poses a “durable threat” and that the outcome of the war in Ukraine will help define the future status of European nations.

France’s Prime Minister Francois Bayrou is expected to unveil next year’s full budget on Thursday.

Erizia Rubyjeana

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