The move is part of a broader shift across Europe, where nations who have long enjoyed the decades-long tranquillity of U.S. security guarantees are fretting about President Donald Trump's shifting priorities and Russia's aggressive posture.

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"France cannot remain idle," Macron said during a speech at the 27th Mountain Infantry Brigade in Varces, in the French Alps.

He said the plan was "inspired by practices of our European partners ... at a time when all our European allies advance in response to a threat that weighs on us all."
Macron said the voluntary scheme will be open to 18 and 19-year-olds, who would be paid, and would last 10 months. It will cost 2 billion euros ($2.32 billion), which he called "a significant and necessary effort."

The scheme envisages engaging 3,000 people in 2026, who will only ever serve on French soil, rising to 10,000 by 2030.


"My ambition for France is to reach 50,000 youth by 2036, depending on evolving threats," Macron said.

After the program, participants could integrate into civilian life, become a reservist, or stay in the armed forces, he said.
Macron's announcement brings France in line with nearly a dozen other European nations like Germany and Denmark who have launched similar projects.