France's parade: Macron warns of threats from Russia!

France's parade: Macron warns of threats from Russia!

On July 14, 2025, the colorful French National Day military parade took place on the glamorous Champs-Élysées in Paris. Under the beaming eyes of the audience, President Emmanuel Macron revealed the seriousness of the current geopolitical situation. He made it clear that since 1945, freedom as we know it has never been more threatened than it is today, especially by the ongoing threat from Russia. This message did not come by chance; the parade was staged as a “real military operation” to draw attention to the security threats plaguing Europe.

In his address, Macron also noted that a national strategic review posits an increased risk of a major war in Europe by 2030. To meet the associated challenges, France plans to double defense spending, which is expected to grow to almost 64 billion euros by 2027. In addition, an additional 6.5 billion euros are to flow into the armed forces in 2026 and 2027 to respond to a more “brutal” global environment and strengthen military and financial independence.

Defense spending and European cooperation

Defense spending has increased steadily since Macron took office in 2017. By 2025 they have already increased to about 50.5 billion euros, while the future is expected to bring an update of the military program for 2024-2030 with a budget of 413 billion euros. These developments are necessary because the war in Ukraine and uncertain American support are weighing on Europe. The survey results show that 72 percent of French people support these increases, underlining public awareness of the security challenges.

France is not only considered a military power, but according to Global Firepower it is also the seventh strongest army in the world and the best in the EU. However, there were also critical voices, such as that of Senator Cédric Perrin, who vehemently pointed out that the resources would probably not be sufficient to overcome the new challenges. France's army consists of around 200,000 active soldiers and 44,000 reservists and is equipped with the most modern weapons systems, such as Leclerc tanks, Caesar cannons and a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier.

Security concerns and international impulses

As Macron explained, it is not only the military presence that is crucial, but also the strengthening of the common security structure in Europe. With pressure from the USA to reduce its military protection demands, France could take on a central role in European defense initiatives. As NATO protection declines, the need for an effective European military effort is becoming ever more urgent, and Paris is high on the agenda as a leading nation.

However, the celebrations were not only accompanied by military pomp. The French army presented, among other things, the “Patrouille de France”, which offered a spectacular aerial show with national colors. Foreign troops were also represented: over 450 Indonesian soldiers opened the parade, and a Belgian-Luxembourg company and Franco-Finnish forces took active part. This international cooperation is perceived as a sign of solidarity and strategic cooperation in an uncertain Europe.

In conclusion, the national holiday in France is not only a day of pride, but also a clear indication of how seriously national and European security is taken. Macron and his team appear to have recognized the signs of the times and are planning to increase both military spending and military capabilities. Given the challenges that lie ahead, this “good hand” could ensure that France maintains its place at the forefront of the European security architecture.

For more information about France's defense initiatives and strategic developments, read here: Le Courrier, 20 minutes, and Euronews.