Macron to increase defence budget

PARIS, July 14 (AFP): President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday called for a massive boost to France's defence spending, saying freedom in Europe was facing a greater threat than at any time since the end of World War II.
"We are living a pivotal moment," Macron said in a speech to the armed forces on the eve of the national Bastille Day holiday, denouncing "imperialist policies", "annexing powers" and the notion that "might is right", all a reference to Russia.
"Never has peace on our continent depended to such an extent on the decisions that we take now," said Macron. France faced the challenge "of remaining free and masters of our destiny", he added.
Macron said France's defence budget should rise by 3.5 billion euros ($4.1 billion) in 2026, and then by a further three billion euros in 2027.
"If you want to be feared, you must be powerful," he said, calling for "mobilisation" for national defence by all government departments. "Everyone must be present at their battle stations," Macron said.
"We are still ahead, but if we remain at the same speed we will be overtaken tomorrow," he added.
French military and security officials have been warning of global threats weighing on France.