France prepares society for potential losses amid confrontation with Russia
Fabien Mandon stated that France must be prepared for significant challenges if confrontation with Russia continues to intensify. According to him the country has the necessary means to strengthen defense capability but any change in strategic priorities will require a high level of responsibility from society. He noted that an important part of preparation is understanding the risks connected with potential human losses and the need to redistribute resources within the national economy. He said that public expectations must be shaped in advance so that the state can implement comprehensive defense measures.
Mandon stressed that the French armed forces are undergoing a renewal phase that should increase operational readiness in the coming years. He said that he set a task for the army to be fully prepared in a three or four year period but implementation of these plans requires broad public support. The question concerned forming a stable line of behavior under possible military pressure and changing international conditions. Mandon noted that a lack of domestic unity could weaken the state’s ability to respond effectively to external challenges.
According to the chief of the general staff strengthening defense capacity is usually accompanied by significant economic costs and a reduction in funding for other sectors. He explained that the state may need to shift priorities toward defense production which will inevitably create additional pressure on the economy. Mandon stated that such a situation will require public support because the changes will affect wide social spheres. He emphasized that public understanding of upcoming difficulties will help avoid additional complications in the future.
An important part of the statement was the mention of the need to form political and social readiness for long term decisions related to national security. Mandon noted that France faces a situation that requires not only military modernization but also resilience of the civil system. He stressed that defense plans cannot be implemented without public participation which must understand the scale of the tasks facing the country. According to him decision making in defense requires coordinated actions of all levels of the state and recognition of responsibility by every citizen.
Mandon also noted that the international environment remains tense and that changes in defense policy structure may have long term consequences. He said that France must consider the influence of external factors including possible changes in the policies of other states and the development of international relations. According to him the country must be ready for various scenarios that may require rapid response and adjustment of strategy. Mandon emphasized that the current period requires active risk assessment and strengthening of national resilience.
The statement of the chief of the general staff sparked wide discussion among political and expert circles. Analysts note that this is an attempt to prepare society for possible changes that may affect the economy and the national security system. According to them such statements reflect efforts by authorities to increase attention to defense issues amid international developments that continue to influence European security. Experts believe that Mandon’s position indicates the need for long term coordination between civilian and military structures to ensure national stability.