France's top military official, General Fabien Mandon, has ignited a fierce debate across the political spectrum after issuing a stark warning about the nation's readiness to confront potential threats from Russia. During a speech to local mayors on November 18, General Mandon, who serves as the Chief of the Defence Staff, asserted that while France possesses the economic and demographic resources to deter Moscow, it critically lacks the societal 'spirit' required to endure the sacrifices of a major conflict.
Context: Russia-Ukraine War and European Stance
The general's comments come against the backdrop of Russia's ongoing full-scale invasion of Ukraine, which began in February 2022. European powers, including France, have been supplying significant military aid to Ukraine but have consistently maintained they are not direct combatants. Mandon's address, however, pushed the narrative further, urging a deeper national resolve.
“We have all the knowledge, all the economic and demographic strength to deter the Moscow regime from trying its luck by going further,” General Mandon stated. He then emphasized the missing element: “What we lack, and this is where you have a major role to play, is the strength of spirit to accept suffering in order to protect who we are.” He continued with a chilling clarification: “If our country falters because it is not prepared to accept – let’s be honest – to lose its children, to suffer economically because defence production will take precedence, then we are at risk.”
Widespread Political Condemnation and Divisions
These remarks swiftly drew widespread condemnation. French officials, including President Emmanuel Macron, have previously cautioned that Russia might escalate its aggression if its campaign in Ukraine succeeds. Authorities have attempted to mentally prepare the populace for potential wartime sacrifices, yet this message struggles to resonate with a polarized public often feeling detached from the front lines, secure behind a nuclear deterrent.
Fabien Roussel, leader of the French Communist Party, reacted sharply on X, stating, “It’s a NO! 51,000 war memorials in our towns and villages are not enough?” He added, “Yes to national defence, but no to unbearable warmongering rhetoric!”
Louis Aliot, deputy leader of the far-right National Rally, offered a nuanced critique. While acknowledging the necessity to be prepared to die for one's country, he questioned the context: “...the war being waged must be just, or understood, or the necessity must dictate that the very survival of the nation is at stake... I don’t think there are many French people who are ready to go and die for Ukraine.”
Christian Estrosi, the mayor of Nice and a member of the center-right Horizons party (part of Macron’s ruling coalition), expressed outright shock. Speaking to CNews, Estrosi questioned the general's role: “Is it the role of the chief of staff of the army to worry the country in this way? It’s an act of weakness.” The significant political backlash highlights the deep divisions and sensitivities surrounding discussions of national sacrifice and military preparedness in France.
