France, Nov. 28 -- The war in Ukraine, following the Russian invasion in 2022, instabilityin the Middle East and uncertainty surrounding the level of United States involvement in the event of conflict have seen discussions over strengthening military capabilities arise across Europe - in terms of manpower as well as weaponry.

"Many countries in Europe are reintroducing national service," France's Chief of the Defence Staff, Fabien Mandon, said last week, beforePresident Emmanuel Macron on Thursday outlined his plans for the establishment of voluntary youth military service.

"At a time when all our European allies are making progress in the face of a threat that affects us all, France cannot remain idle," Macron said at the launch of the...