French president unveils new military program for volunteers aged 18 and 19
Summary
President Emmanuel Macron announced a new military program in France that will train young volunteers aged 18 and 19. The program is part of efforts to strengthen France's defense in response to perceived threats from Russia. Volunteers will serve for 10 months in France and its territories, not in foreign operations.Key Facts
- The program will begin next year with 3,000 volunteers and aims to expand to 50,000 annually by 2035.
- Volunteers will wear uniforms, receive training, and perform duties similar to active military, but serve only within France and its territories.
- After their service, volunteers can join the reserves, continue education, or start a military career.
- The initiative is not a return to conscription, which ended in France in 1996.
- President Macron also announced a significant increase in France's defense budget, aiming for 64 billion euros annually by 2027.
- The program is designed in response to concerns about potential conflict with Russia.
- France's military currently includes around 200,000 active personnel and over 40,000 reservists.
- Russia's actions in regions like Ukraine and Crimea have influenced France’s decision to enhance its defense strategies.
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