Macron Proposes Boosting France’s Military Spending to 5% of GDP

French President Emmanuel Macron proposed raising France’s military spending from 2.1% to 5% of GDP during a meeting at the Élysée on February 20, France Inter reported.

The idea was discussed as a contingency should the United States withdraw its protection of Europe via NATO, the outlet added.

The topic resurfaced on February 20 evening when Macron addressed questions from internet users about Ukraine during a social media Q&A.

Macron said that he did not know “if 5% is the right figure for France, but in any case, we will have to go up.”

On February 13, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stated that Russia produces more ammunition in three months than NATO does in an entire year.

Earlier, on December 4, Mark Rutte stated that alliance members will soon discuss increasing defense spending targets beyond the current 2% of GDP, as this level is insufficient to ensure long-term security.