Macron Plans Major Increase in France's Defense Budget

France's president Emmanuel Macron wants to expand the country's defense expenditures by 6.5 billion euro – more than 72 billion Swedish kronor – during the years 2026 to 2027.

» Published: July 13 2025 at 20:31

Macron Plans Major Increase in France's Defense Budget
Photo: Ludovic Marin/AP/TT

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The reason is that the threats to Europe are increasing, according to Macron. It's about everything from Russia to terror and IT attacks.

This would mean that France's defense spending in 2027 will be twice as large as in 2017, when Macron took office as president.

Macron brought up his defense plans in connection with a long speech where he urged to strengthen the protection of Europe.

–Since 1945, freedom has never been so threatened, and never so seriously, said Macron in a speech to the French military.

France can find the means to invest more in the military at the same time as the country tries to reduce its massive debts, he assured.

The country's highest military officer should also initiate a "strategic dialogue" with European partners about the role that French nuclear weapons can play in defending Europe, urged Macron.

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By TTEnglish edition by Sweden Herald, adapted for local and international readers
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