French Chief Warns of Open War With Russia, Urges €36 Billion Defense Boost
Key Takeaways
- France's Chief of the Defence Staff warns of open war with Russia.
- He urges a €36 billion increase in France's military budget for 2024-2030.
- Made before Parliament's defense committee to defend higher defense spending.
French General Warns of War
General Fabien Mandon warned the National Assembly that the possibility of an open war with Russia remains my primary concern.
“French military chief says risk of direct war with Russia main concern ‘The permanence of a Russian threat on our continent, with an open war … remains my primary concern in terms of military preparedness,’ Fabien Mandon says Seyma Erkul Dayanc 09 April 2026•Update: 09 April 2026 Archive ISTANBUL France’s chief of defense staff warned Thursday that the possibility of a direct war with Russia remains his primary military concern, highlighting what he described as a persistent security threat across Europe amid efforts to strengthen French defense preparedness”
He presented a plan for a €36 billion increase in defense spending between 2024 and 2030.
Mandon cited intelligence estimates projecting Russia's army growing from 1.3 million to 1.9 million by 2030.
He acknowledged that we can no longer have the same level of commitment to the Americans.
The Kremlin dismissed the fears as completely unfounded.
Three to Four Year Shock
Mandon told the defense committee that Russia could attempt a military incursion in Europe within three to four years.
He described it as a test rather than a full-scale attack.
The European Commission presented a roadmap to help capitals prepare for war by 2030.
The French military planning law will incorporate a national security alert mechanism.
Supply Chain Under Scrutiny
Rahman Textile produced clothing for several European fashion brands, including Hessen and BrandBox.
“The Chief of Staff of the French armed forces, Fabien Mandon, has warned of a permanent Russian threat in Europe”
Both companies said they were deeply saddened and would review their operations.
Hessen's compliance team had audited the factory in March.
Rahman Textile owner claimed the factory had passed its most recent safety inspection in January.
The Dhaka Tribune reported that Rahman was being questioned about welded shut emergency exits.
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