Macron Unveils New National Military Service Plan Amid Rising Global Tensions

Wed Nov 26 2025 22:58:13 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

French President Emmanuel Macron is set to announce a new voluntary military service aimed at strengthening the army's ranks and addressing the 'desire for service' among youth. The initiative comes in light of increasing security concerns, particularly with Russia's ongoing military actions.

President Emmanuel Macron will introduce a new voluntary military service this week to enhance France's military capabilities amidst heightened threats from Russia. The proposed service, lasting 10 months and offering remuneration, seeks to engage youth in national defense without military deployment to Ukraine. Macron emphasizes the need for national unity and strength against perceived threats.

President Emmanuel Macron said he will announce a new military service aimed at boosting French army numbers later this week.

Details are scant, but according to French media, the scheme would be voluntary, remunerated, and last 10 months.

In an interview with local media, he sought to reassure the French public that the plan did not mean young people would be sent to fight in Ukraine.

We really need to, right now, dispel any misconception that we're going to send our young people to Ukraine, he said. That's not at all what this is about.

However, Macron stated the new framework was meant to address the 'desire for service' among the youth - and to face the 'hybrid confrontation' waged by Russia.

If we French want to protect ourselves... we must show that we are not weak in the face of one power that threatens us the most, Macron stated.

No official details on the new military service have yet been shared, but it is expected that Macron will elaborate during a visit to an army base on Thursday.

French media reports suggest that volunteers will be paid between €900 (£790) and €1000 (£880) per month. Previously, conscription was abolished in France in 1996, and the current iteration of the national service offers only two weeks of training followed by two weeks of community work.

Politicians from various parties have expressed support or suggestions for broadening the scope of service. Macron has also expressed concerns over France's national security in light of Russia's military advances, urging for readiness among European nations.