Majority of French Citizens Support Return of Mandatory Military Service

A new survey reveals shifting public opinion in France, with 61% favoring military conscription as concerns grow over European security and U.S. foreign policy.

A recent poll shows 61% of French citizens support reinstating mandatory military service, with stronger backing among older demographics and right-leaning political groups.
Support for conscription is highest among those aged 65 and older (72%) and among voters of Les Républicains (72%) and Rassemblement National (77%).
The survey highlights growing unease over European security, as 76% of French respondents express concern about the potential expansion of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Trust in the United States as an ally is waning in France, with only 25% of respondents considering the U.S. a reliable partner following its decision to freeze military aid to Ukraine.
The poll also reveals that 59% of French citizens view U.S. President Donald Trump as a 'dictator,' reflecting broader skepticism toward U.S. leadership in Europe.