The War in Ukraine Will Not End Tomorrow or the Day After, Says French President Macron

French President Emmanuel Macron has unveiled plans to involve young volunteers in bolstering the country’s armed forces, as part of a broader effort to adapt to emerging global security challenges.

The initiative, reported by Le Monde on January 20, reflects France’s shifting defense priorities in light of ongoing international tensions, including Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine.

“Let us not delude ourselves, the war in Ukraine will not end tomorrow or the day after,” Macron stated.

As part of his strategy, Macron urged the government to develop training programs aimed at preparing volunteers for potential military support roles.

“We will need to better identify volunteers, train them, and be able to mobilize them when the time comes, to strengthen the armies in mainland France or elsewhere,” Macron explained.

Highlighting the importance of a unified European response, Macron emphasized the need to support Ukraine both during and after Russia’s war.

“The challenge today is to enable Ukraine to persevere and enter any future negotiations from a position of strength. When the fighting ends, it will be essential to provide Ukraine with guarantees against any return to war, as well as ensure the security of Europe,” Macron said.

Previously, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron were reportedly considering deploying British and French troops to Ukraine as part of a peacekeeping mission following a potential agreement to end the war.