Overview
- Speaking on the G20 sidelines, Macron said the general has his full confidence and reminded that only the president can commit French forces with Parliament informed.
- General Mandon told France 5 that his aim was to alert and prepare mayors as the security context worsens, noting the need for public awareness.
- Government spokesperson Maud Bregeon clarified that the remark referred to professional soldiers and said French children will not be sent to fight in Ukraine.
- An armed forces spokesperson described soldiers as the nation’s children and warned that a high‑intensity war could mean hundreds to a thousand military deaths per day.
- Defense Minister Catherine Vautrin defended Mandon’s legitimacy to brief mayors, as opposition leaders from LFI, the PCF and the RN condemned the tone, fueling a wider debate on preparedness and potential measures such as voluntary service.