French President Emmanuel Macron has announced a voluntary national service programme starting next summer, as Europe seeks to strengthen its military in the face of the growing Russian threat Conscription in France was scrapped in 1996 (Image: Getty)

French President Emmanuel Macron has unveiled plans for a national voluntary service, as Europe looks to fortify its military in response to escalating tensions with Russia . With the spectre of conflict looming over Europe, Macron is keen to enhance France's defences, more than a quarter-century after his nation phased out conscription.

The new national service military initiative is set to kick off next summer and will be open to 18 and 19 year olds. Macron revealed that volunteers would embark on a 10-month programme , with a

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