French President Emmanuel Macron has unveiled a new military service plan to boost its armed forces in response to the threat posed by Russia.

In an announcement, Mr Macron said volunteers aged 18 and 19 will start serving next year in a 10-month military service programme.

He told French media: "There is a generation ready to rise up for the fatherland. We cannot go back to the time of conscription, but we need mobilisation.

"Our young people will have to participate in at least one commemorative ceremony per year in each school.

"We will encourage students to complete their second-year internships in our armed forces."

Image: France has the second largest military in the European Union. Pic: Reuters

He added that young volunteers will serve in France 's mainland and overs

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