Military Youth Service, a Cold War Relic, Makes a Comeback in France

Russian President Vladimir Putin has reiterated his demands for territorial concessions from Ukraine ahead of upcoming talks with the United States in Moscow, accusing Kyiv of being willing to fight 'to the last Ukrainian.' This statement underscores Russia's firm stance on its territorial claims amidst ongoing conflict.

French President Emmanuel Macron has announced the reintroduction of a voluntary national military service, targeting young individuals aged 18 to 19, which will last for approximately 10 months and provide a monthly stipend of 800 euros. This initiative marks a significant shift in France's defense strategy, occurring 25 years after the end of compulsory military service.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has commented on the latest U.S. peace proposal regarding the Ukraine conflict, indicating a lack of optimism for a breakthrough. His remarks suggest that while he acknowledges the U.S. plan as a potential foundation for peace, he simultaneously expresses skepticism about its feasibility.

Russian President Vladimir Putin indicated that a U.S. peace plan could serve as a foundation for ending the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, while emphasizing that Ukraine must surrender territory for any deal to be feasible. This statement comes amid ongoing discussions about peace negotiations and the role of NATO in the region.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has commented on the latest U.S. proposal for peace in Ukraine, describing it as a starting point that requires further work. He emphasized that the plan presents a series of questions that need to be addressed before any agreement can be reached.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has stated that Russia will continue its military efforts in Ukraine if ongoing peace talks do not yield satisfactory agreements. He expressed a willingness to engage with the U.S. regarding a potential peace plan while simultaneously warning of Russia's readiness to expand its territorial claims in Ukraine.

Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that a U.S.-backed peace plan could serve as a general framework for resolving the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, emphasizing that Ukraine must cede key territories for any agreement to be feasible. This statement reflects the complexities of the negotiations as both sides seek a resolution to the war.

France is set to introduce a voluntary military service lasting 10 months for young individuals aged 18 and 19, beginning in mid-2026. This initiative, announced by President Emmanuel Macron, aims to bolster national defense amid rising security concerns regarding threats from Russia.