Like other European leaders, the president wants to bolster defences against Russian aggression

A speech by a leading general hinting at the need for conscription has taken the French out of their comfort zone

Like other European leaders, the president wants to bolster defences against Russian aggression

France's military currently comprises around 200,000 active personnel and over 40,000 reservists

"The only way to avoid danger is to prepare for it," says President Emmanuel Macron.

The president specified that the program will be available to young people between the ages of 18 and 19, including both men and women

Macron says plan to introduce 10 months’ service among 18- and 19-year-olds will help France respond to ‘accelerating threats’

French President Emmanuel Macron announced the program as other European countries have considered similar measures with an eye on a resurgent Russia.