France Warns of Persistent Russian Threat

(MENAFN) France’s top military official cautioned on Thursday that the risk of a direct conflict with Russia continues to be his foremost defense concern, underscoring what he portrayed as an ongoing security challenge throughout Europe as the country works to enhance its military readiness.

“The permanence of a Russian threat on our continent, with an open war ... remained my primary concern in terms of military preparedness,” emphasized Fabien Mandon during remarks at the French National Assembly.

Mandon pointed out that Russia’s armed forces are expected to reach approximately 1.3 million personnel by 2025, with projections rising to 1.9 million by 2030.

He further explained that the number of heavy tanks could expand from 4,000 to 7,000, while the naval fleet is anticipated to sustain between 230 and 240 combat vessels.

“This was not dogmatic, it was informed,” he stated, highlighting the importance of strengthening France’s defense infrastructure.

He also drew attention to the continuous threats facing the European continent and stressed the necessity of maintaining robust military preparedness, describing the revised military programming law as essential for safeguarding citizens, national territory, and France’s strategic interests.

“We were in a period of danger. We must not create fear, only awareness, because we needed this defense investment,” he concluded.

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