French Army Chief of Staff: Our Military Must Be Ready for a "Shock" Against Russia Within 3 to 4 Years

General Fabien Mandon, the French Army Chief of Staff, emphasized that his forces must be "ready for a shock within 3 or 4 years" in the face of Russia, which might seek "to continue the war on our continent." This warning was made as part of his justification for France's ongoing "rearmament efforts."

Speaking on Wednesday before members of the Defence Committee of the National Assembly, General Mandon — who took command of the French Armed Forces on September 1st — stated that "the primary goal I have set for the armed forces is to be ready for a shock within 3 or 4 years, which will serve as a test," noting that "the test may already be present in hybrid forms, but perhaps (it will be something) more violent."

Mandon indicated that Russia might seek "to continue the war on our continent, and this is the crucial element of what I am preparing for." This analysis aligns with reports from German intelligence services, which warned last week that Russia is ready "to enter into a direct military conflict with NATO" before 2029.

Russia Cannot Intimidate Europe If It Decides to Defend Itself

Mandon noted that Moscow views Europe as "collectively weak," stressing that the Russian side "does not hesitate to resort to force." Nevertheless, the French General asserted: "We have everything it takes to be self-confident," pointing out that economically, demographically, and industrially, Europeans would outweigh Russia.

Justifying the increased military budget, Mandon continued: "Russia cannot intimidate us if we decide to defend ourselves."

The Army Chief concluded with a warning: "If our potential competitors, our adversaries, realize that we are dedicated to defending ourselves, and that we have this resolve, they might back down. But if they feel we are not ready to defend ourselves, I don't see what can stop them."