General Thierry Burkhard of the French Army warns of Russia’s persistent threat to Europe, particularly in targeting France, emphasizing its robust military capabilities and ongoing destabilization efforts.
Russia's Perspective: A General's Warning on France as a Key Adversary
Russia's Perspective: A General's Warning on France as a Key Adversary
The French military chief highlights Russia's ongoing threat, focusing on its view of France as a primary opponent in Europe.
In a rare news conference held in Paris, General Thierry Burkhard, the head of the French military, issued a stark warning about Russia’s intentions and capabilities, framing it as a long-term adversary. He asserted that Moscow perceives France as its primary opponent in Europe due to France’s unwavering support for Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict.
Burkhard characterized Russia as a “lasting, close threat,” capable of exerting influence in various forms, from military maneuvers in space to hybrid destabilization efforts. Despite suffering significant losses on the battlefield in Ukraine, he expressed concern that Russia is continuing to bolster its military resources. He estimates that by 2030, it could present a substantial threat to European borders.
The general noted that while Russia is already a formidable military force, it boasts a comprehensive military structure, including a centralized command, diverse capability for nuclear strikes from various platforms, and a populace accustomed to enduring adversity. “I don’t see any missing capabilities,” he remarked, indicating that the Russian military is well-equipped for future conflicts.
Burkhard emphasized that the Kremlin, led by President Vladimir Putin, has explicitly labeled France as its main adversary within Europe, reiterating that while Russia may have disputes with other nations, its primary focus is on undermining France’s position.
Specific actions have already shown Russia’s aggressive stance toward France, including the jamming of French satellites, the surveillance of strategic waterways by Russian submarines, and air patrols by bombers to gather intelligence on allied naval operations. Burkhard cited covert operations within France, such as the dissemination of misinformation concerning a bedbug outbreak in Paris and antisemitic graffiti related to rising tensions in the country, as further indications of Russia’s destabilization strategy.
The general underscored the urgency of awareness regarding Russia’s focus on France, asserting that destabilizing France is crucial to Russia’s broader strategy to disrupt European unity and support for Ukraine. “There’s a real need for awareness,” he cautioned. “We are the No. 1 adversary designated by the Russians, and that means there’s an existing level of threat.”
When queried about Putin’s declarations regarding France as a specific adversary, Burkhard’s spokesperson referenced a poll revealing that approximately 48 percent of surveyed Russians identified France as the most hostile country toward Russia.
Reporting from Paris, Catherine Porter of The Times continues to monitor developments closely, as the implications of these military assessments resonate through both diplomatic and security channels.
