France Accelerates Defense Spending Boost Amid Russia Threat

French President Emmanuel Macron announced an accelerated increase in defense spending, aiming to reach €64 billion ($75 billion) by 2027, three years earlier than initially planned, in response to heightened threats from Russia and other global security challenges. Macron emphasized that Europe faces a permanent Russian threat and must strengthen its military capabilities to ensure freedom and security, stating, 'To be free in this world we must be feared.' France will add €3.5 billion to the 2026 defense budget and €3 billion to the 2027 budget, doubling its defense budget since 2017 despite challenging fiscal conditions. French officials highlighted risks including reduced U.S. commitment to Europe, cyber threats, disinformation, and terrorism, underscoring the need for France to become more self-reliant in defense. While some experts note that France's increased spending still falls short of NATO's 3.5% of GDP target, the government has declared the defense budget sacrosanct amid budget pressures. Prime Minister Francois Bayrou plans to protect defense funding from cuts in the upcoming 2026 budget despite overall fiscal discipline efforts.