“Russia has appointed France as its first opponent in Europe,” alerts General Burkhard

Unwillingly “To scare the French”, The chief of staff of the armies was categorical. Russia now considers France as its “Principal opponent in Europe” According to him. Moreover, “It was (Vladimir) Putin who said” That France was his priority target on the continent. For example, insisted General Burkhard at a press conference devoted to the threats to national security this Friday, July 11. Moreover, “This does not mean that he does not take care of other countries”however, he recalled.

France. Furthermore, nuclear power protected by its deterrence, is not the subject of a direct threat of attack “Heavy” On its territory, assured the soldier. Therefore, But Moscow would have“Other options”including hybrid actions: disinformation, cyber attacks, spying proceedings, but also hostile spatial operations. The general spoke. supporting evidence, “Disinformation campaigns in France or Africa”sabotage of underwater infrastructure, as well as “Russian satellite maneuvers” aimed “russia appointed france its first at blurring or spying on French equipment in space.

Increasingly tense relationships – "russia appointed france its first

He also mentioned the presence of “Russian attack nuclear submarines” In the North Atlantic. the Mediterranean, seeking to monitor sensitive areas for Paris as for London, another weight support in Ukraine. In the air. finally, the contacts between Russian and French devices would be “Frequent”including “Above Syria”, “In the Black Sea”, “In the Mediterranean” or “Esalely in the North Atlantic”.

Relations between Paris. Moscow have deteriorated considerably since the start of the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. In recent months. Russia has repeatedly accused of carrying out destabilization and disinformation operations in France, while Paris was criticized for its constant military support in kyiv. Shortly after the offensive triggering, France had expelled 41 Russian diplomats, accused of carrying out spy “russia appointed france its first activities under diplomatic coverage. In retaliation, Moscow had expelled 34 French diplomats.

At the end of February. Emmanuel Macron had questioned himself in a serious tone: “Who can believe that Russia will stop in Ukraine?” »» On the eve of an extraordinary European Council in Brussels dedicated to support for kyiv. the Head of State had qualified Moscow as “Threat to France and Europe”.