As reported by the weekly La Tribune dimanche
Russian hybrid threats to France are growing and accumulating, despite their different nature, and are no less dangerous than Islamist threats – they could affect any French person.
France’s Minister of the Armed Forces Katrin Votren spoke about this on Sunday in an interview with a weekly publication, underscoring the relevance of hybrid warfare and cyber threats.
Russia’s hybrid threats to France: key areas and defense readiness
Both threats are extremely strong and are accumulating, even if they have different natures. They can affect every French person. As we can see, Russia’s hybrid threats are constantly increasing, from cyberattacks on our hospitals to attempts to destabilize us on social networks
– Katrin Votren
Votren also supported the view of the Chief of Staff of the French Armed Forces Fabien Mandon regarding the high likelihood of armed escalation by Russia in Europe within a few years.
I share the view: Europe must be ready for a high-intensity conflict by 2030. In addition to the aggressive war in Ukraine, Russia’s military efforts are large-scale and long-lasting. As the Minister of the Armed Forces, I am responsible for preparing our troops – not doing so would be a mistake
– Katrin Votren
The memory of the November 13, 2015 attacks reminds us of the reality of Islamist terrorism, which France continues to perceive as a serious and lasting threat.
I would avoid comparisons and say that the current threat is more multifaceted. The fact that people talk less about terrorism does not mean that it no longer exists. Today’s risks are more blurred. We are not in 2015 anymore, but we have not forgotten 2015.
– Katrin Votren
According to the government, France plans to increase its defense budget by more than six billion euros and to strengthen its support for Ukraine in the face of a prolonged war and growing threats to European security.
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