Russia is a country that could be tempted to continue the conflict on our continent. The first goal I have assigned to the armed forces is to be ready for a shock in the next 3-4 years, a form of challenge. This challenge already exists in a mixed form but could become more violent," General Fabien Mandon, the new Chief of the French General Staff, told lawmakers in the French National Assembly's Defense Committee on October 22.
Top generals and politicians from the EU and NATO have warned that Russia could attack the alliance in the coming years, with an expected time frame from 2027 to 2030. Last week, the European Commission presented a roadmap to help member countries prepare for conflict response before 2030.
Traditionally, compared to their counterparts in Europe, French military officers often do not give a time frame or speak frankly about the possibility of Russia attacking NATO. However, in recent months, France's expressions on the issue have become sharper, with President Emmanuel Macron saying that Europe is "facing Russia".
General Mandon noted that the assumption that the Russia-Ukraine conflict will break out in 2022 is the last and will not happen again in Europe "is to ignore the risks that our society is facing. The Russian is reorganizing with one goal: Facing NATO".
The French general also emphasized: Europe is a suitable scale to address our challenges.
He explained that France's increased rearming was a signal to deter Russia: "If the opponent sees that we are making efforts, they can give up. If they see us not preparing for self-defense, I don't see anything that can stop them."
