France Is Bringing Back Youth Military Service

PARIS—French President Emmanuel Macron is resurrecting military service as a rite of passage for young people, part of a push to put Europe on a war footing to counter an expansionist Russia.

- By Stacy MEIcHTRY Anp Noemie BISSERBE

In the Cold War era, many nations across Europe required their citizenry to undergo military training. The new program won't be mandatory for now. Making the service voluntary reflects the political realities of modern-day Europe, where much of th