France’s top general, Fabien Mandon, has issued a stark warning that citizens should be prepared to confront the possibility of losing children in a potential war with Russia, a statement that has triggered widespread criticism. Mandon, appointed chief of staff in September, made the remark during an annual gathering of mayors in Paris, stating that the country must be ready to ‘accept suffering in order to protect who we are.’ His comments, which include the suggestion that France could face war with Russia by 2028, have faced immediate backlash from various political parties, including the Communist Party, which accused him of employing ‘unbearable warmongering rhetoric.’ The warnings have intensified the ongoing debate over France’s military readiness and spending priorities amidst escalating tensions with Russia.