France has issued a dire warning about a potential ‘major war in Europe’ by 2030, according to a recently released defense review. The Strategic National Review, published by the General Secretariat for Defense and National Security, highlights Russia as the primary threat, alongside Iran, China, and other non-state actors.
The report asserts that France and its European allies face a high risk of conflict, with specific mention of potential actions by Moscow against Moldova, the Balkans, and Eastern European NATO members. The review also calls for increased military spending and economic shifts toward ‘war preparedness.’
The review warns that Russia could act against Moldova, the Balkans, or Eastern European NATO members. It also names Iran and China as strategic threats: Iran is accused of destabilizing the Middle East, while China is portrayed as seeking global dominance.
France must reinforce its military and shift its economy to ‘war preparedness,’ the review concludes, calling for new investments both in the country and across the EU to deter aggression.
The publication of the review comes amid wider EU militarization. Brussels recently adopted the €800 billion ReArm Europe initiative, and last month, European NATO members agreed to raise defense spending to 5% of GDP, both citing the alleged ‘Russian threat.’
Russia has dismissed claims that it plans to attack the West. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has said the West uses Russia as a ‘monster’ to justify its growing military budgets.
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov accused Western leaders last week of forgetting history and pushing Europe toward a direct clash with Russia. He added that Russia will factor EU militarization into its own strategic planning.