Russia aims to mobilize an additional 3 million soldiers by 2030 – Macron
Photo: French President Emmanuel Macron (Getty Images)
Russia plans to mobilize millions of new soldiers and produce thousands of tanks by the end of the decade, stated French President Emmanuel Macron in his address to the nation.
“Russia’s aggression may seem distant, but in reality, it is very close. Russia continues to rearm and spends more than 40% of its budget on defense,” Macron said.
According to him, Russia aims to mobilize an additional 3 million soldiers by 2030. In the same period, it plans to add 4,000 more tanks to its arsenal.
“And who knows if Russian aggression will stop at Ukraine? Could Russia pose a threat to Europe? I am convinced that, in the long run, peace will prevail on our continent when Russia becomes a peaceful nation,” the French President emphasized.
Support for Ukraine and Europe's defense
Macron also called Russia a threat to Europe in his speech. According to him, the Russian threat affects all of Europe, and remaining a mere spectator in this "world of dangers” would be sheer madness.
The President recalled how Russia had violated previous promises and guarantees, stating that he rejects a “too fragile” ceasefire in Ukraine.
In this context, Macron announced that France would gather the chiefs of staff of countries willing to send a contingent to Ukraine. He suggested that peace in Ukraine would likely require European troops stationed in the country - not to fight on the front line but to ensure full compliance with a future peace agreement.
At the same time, Macron stressed the need to strengthen France’s and Europe’s defense. He also announced plans to launch discussions on using France’s nuclear weapons to protect the entire European Union.
