French President Emmanuel Macron delivered his annual address to the Armed Forces. In it, he stated the need to strengthen the country's defense.
French President Emmanuel Macron delivered his traditional New Year’s address to the Armed Forces on Thursday at the Istres-Le Tubé airbase near Marseille.
He outlined the prospect of a "year of trials" for national defense amid rising international tensions.
The war in Ukraine continues, as does the tension in Iran. Additionally, a new cause for concern has emerged: the ambitions expressed by U.S. President Donald Trump regarding Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark.
"We are ready," the head of state stated, noting that "a decade of French rearmament is bearing fruit."
“To remain free, one must instill fear”
Emmanuel Macron reaffirmed his "determination to provide the armed forces with the means to guarantee our defense" in a world he describes as increasingly unstable.
"To remain free, one must instill fear, and to instill fear, one must be strong. To be strong in such a harsh world, one must act faster and more decisively," he said.
He outlined three strategic priorities: to increase ammunition stocks, strengthen operational readiness, and guarantee the country’s sovereignty.
Emmanuel Macron also confirmed the intention to significantly increase military spending: by €36 billion during the period from 2026 to 2030, with €3.5 billion of that already in 2026.
Back in 2017, when he took office as president, Emmanuel Macron committed to raising France’s defense spending to 2% of GDP, and this goal has now been achieved.
Lag in the Drone Sector
The head of state also acknowledged that French defense is lagging behind competitors in certain areas—particularly regarding drones, which are widely used in the war in Ukraine.
"We are lagging behind," he admitted, calling for a "quick and tough response." Emphasizing the Russian threat, Emmanuel Macron warned: "We are in Russia’s strike zone."
The President of France also announced an increase in the French presence in Greenland. Although about fifteen French military personnel are already stationed in Nuuk for exercises, he stated that this contingent will be "reinforced in the coming days with land, air, and naval assets."
"Europeans have a special responsibility" in Greenland, he emphasized.
