Politics2026-02-02
French parliament clears way for Macron's military spending boost in 2026 budget
France's parliament adopted the 2026 budget, adding 6.7 billion euros in defence spending compared with 2025 for new submarines, armoured vehicles, and air-defence systems, while aiming to cut the deficit to 5% of GDP.
France’s 2026 budget adds €6.7 billion in defence spending over 2025 — funding a new nuclear submarine, missiles, and armoured vehicles — while targeting a deficit of 5% of GDP, down from 5.4% in 2025. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu used constitutional powers to pass the budget without a parliamentary vote, surviving two no-confidence motions in the process. The spending increase reflects President Macron’s response to the war in Ukraine and instability in the Middle East.