**In a pivotal address, Emmanuel Macron underlined the dire state of Europe’s security landscape, urging France to bolster its defense budget significantly in light of geopolitical challenges.**
### Macron Warns of Europe's Defense Crisis Amid Rising Geopolitical Tensions
### Macron Warns of Europe's Defense Crisis Amid Rising Geopolitical Tensions
**French President emphasizes the urgent need for increased military funding in response to threats**
French President Emmanuel Macron has voiced grave concerns regarding Europe's security, asserting that the continent is facing its most significant threat since World War II. During a recent speech to the armed forces in Paris, Macron stressed that the current geopolitical climate demands immediate action, calling for an increase in France's defense expenditure by €3.5 billion (£3 billion) for the upcoming year, followed by another €3 billion by 2027.
With tensions stemming from Russia's aggressive actions and "imperialist policies," Macron emphasized that Europe must prepare for complex geopolitical realities, particularly referencing the ongoing conflict in Ukraine that escalated after Russia's invasion in February 2022. In a bold move, he announced plans to double France's military budget from €32 billion to €64 billion within two years, ahead of the original timeline.
Macron argued that real freedom requires power, stating, "To be free in this world, you must be feared. To be feared, you must be powerful." He voiced concerns over the resurgence of nuclear power and the instability of global conflicts, mentioning factors such as the U.S. involvement in Iran, tensions between India and Pakistan, and fluctuating American support for Ukraine.
The recent NATO summit corroborated Macron's sentiments, as members committed to increasing defense spending to 5% of GDP from the previously established target of 2%. Concurrently, UK officials have initiated a defense review aimed at sending a clear message to Moscow regarding European unity.
Supporting Macron's perspective, French Army Chief Thierry Burkhard identified Russia as France's primary adversary in Europe and highlighted a persistent threat from the nation, suggesting that the future standing of European countries is being determined amid the ongoing events in Ukraine.
As discussions intensify around France's defense budget, Prime Minister Francois Bayrou is expected to reveal next year's financial plans, which could further define the country's military strategy and alliance with NATO.
