France predicts a new war in 3-4 years

France predicts a new major conflict in Europe in the coming years - Chief of the Armed Forces Mandon

Chief of the French Armed Forces General Thierry Mandon made a disturbing statement that has already sparked debate in French society and among allies. According to him, Europe should prepare for a major war in the next 3-4 years, and French society «will have to agree to sacrifice our children».

General Mandon stressed that the world is rapidly moving towards an era of high turbulence, where authoritarian states are demonstrating their willingness to use force, and European democracies will have to decide on their defence capabilities.

What is the logic behind the statement

According to his estimates, Europe is entering a period when:

• Russia has not stopped its ambitions and continues to militarise,

• NATO should increase its defence budgets,

• The war in Ukraine is only the «first phase» of a broader confrontation on the continent.

The general warned that France and its partners should start preparing their economy, army and society for a possible large-scale conflict.

Context of the statement

Similar warnings have previously been issued by the French Defence Minister, German intelligence, and NATO commanders, who have repeatedly stated that Europe needs to prepare for war within the next few years.

Mandon's statement was one of the sharpest in Europe in recent times and reflects a general trend - the recognition that the region is entering an era of new threats.