France’s top military official has warned that the possibility of a future war with Russia remains his “primary concern”, underscoring growing security anxieties across Europe amid the ongoing Ukraine conflict.Speaking before a parliamentary defence committee, Fabien Mandon, Chief of Staff of the French Armed Forces, said that the “persistence of a Russian threat… with the possibility of an open war” is central to France’s military planning.

Mandon made the remarks while presenting France’s updated military programming law, which outlines a significant increase in defence spending through 2030. The proposed plan includes billions of euros in additional funding aimed at strengthening France’s armed forces, reflecting heightened concerns about long-term security risks in Europe.

The warning comes against the backdrop of the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, which began with Moscow’s full-scale invasion in 2022. European nations, including France, have since increased military aid to Ukraine while also reassessing their own defence preparedness. Despite supporting Kyiv, Western countries have consistently maintained that they are not direct participants in the conflict.

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French military leadership has increasingly emphasised the need for readiness in the face of evolving threats. Mandon noted that intelligence assessments suggest Russia could significantly expand its military capabilities by the end of the decade, including a larger army and enhanced weapons systems. This projection has added urgency to calls for stronger defence infrastructure and strategic planning.

The remarks align with a broader shift in European defence posture, where officials are openly discussing the possibility of high-intensity conflict on the continent. France, in particular, has been pushing for increased military investment, expansion of its nuclear deterrent, and closer coordination with allies to counter potential threats.

Analysts view such statements as part of a wider effort to prepare both policymakers and the public for a more uncertain security environment. While no immediate conflict is expected, the emphasis on preparedness reflects concerns that tensions with Russia could escalate in the coming years, making long-term military readiness a top priority for France and its allies.

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