Macron reveals plans by France to increase army spending

(MENAFN) French President Emmanuel Macron has revealed that France will double its defense budget as part of strategic military reforms, urging other EU countries to increase their own defense spending. The announcement, made following an EU leaders' informal meeting in Brussels, is seen as part of a broader push for Europe to take a more autonomous and unified role in security matters.

Macron stressed that the decision comes after completing two military programming laws and the launch of significant defense projects. He pointed to actions from the new US administration, including the threat of tariffs, as driving the EU to strengthen its defense capabilities.

The French president emphasized the need for the EU to protect its commercial interests, especially with US President Donald Trump’s recent threats of tariffs, which Macron said would be met with a robust EU response. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte expressed support for increased EU defense efforts and the importance of the NATO-EU partnership.

Meanwhile, US President Trump reiterated plans to impose tariffs on EU imports, citing trade imbalances and unfair practices. This adds to an ongoing trade dispute, with the EU already having retaliated against previous US tariffs.

MENAFN04022025000045015687ID1109165167