France Dramatically Increases Military Spending in Response to Russia’s War in Ukraine

France’s parliament on Thursday, July 13 approved a significant increase in military spending in response to Russia’s war against Ukraine and growing global threats.

The draft law on military programming, which allocates €413 billion for spending between 2024 and 2030, received final approval in the National Assembly, the lower house of parliament, with a vote of 244 in favor and 37 against.

The bill was also approved by the Senate on Thursday, securing 313 votes in favor and 17 against.

President Emmanuel Macron advocated for a larger military budget, amounting to €413 billion ($450 billion), which represents the most substantial increase in spending in the past 50 years. The newly allocated budget for the period 2024-2030 exceeds the previous military spending plan of €295 billion for 2019-2025 by more than a third.

The plan involves doubling the number of military reservists, strengthening cyber defense, and boosting weapons production capacity to support Ukraine and ensure sufficient supplies for the French military.

The allocated funds will be utilized to modernize France’s nuclear arsenal, increase investments in intelligence capabilities, and enhance the development of remote-controlled weapons.

The decision to significantly raise the military budget was made by the French parliament on the eve of Bastille Day, a notable occasion in France. It is celebrated on July 14 every year and holds great historical and cultural significance as it commemorates the pivotal event of the storming of the Bastille in 1789, which sparked the French Revolution. It was not only a crucial turning point in French history, but European history as well.

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Bastille Day in France is typically marked by grand parades, mesmerizing fireworks displays, and vibrant cultural events. Along the renowned Champs-Élysées in Paris, a magnificent military parade showcases the French armed forces and vintage military vehicles. The streets are filled with enthusiastic crowds, cheering for France and waving flags in the joyous national celebration.