French President Emmanuel Macron has outlined plans for a big increase in defence spending, warning Europe's liberty is facing a "greater threat" than at any time since the end of World War Two. In a speech to the armed forces in Paris, he said "we are living in a pivotal moment" due to complex geopolitics.

French President Emmanuel Macron increases military budget by 6.5 billion euros for the next two years to strengthen European defense.

Macron called for a 3.5 billion-euro hike in defense spending next year and for another 3 billion-euro boost in 2027.