In any case, this whole discussion is moot. The French do not have the political will to save themselves.
In the brand-new Clancy book, there is a marvelous scene where Jack Ryan Jr. is being taught to fight with a knife. In a memorable quote, his instructor says, “You don’t kill your opponent with your knife. You kill him with your will.” (Quote is probably not exactly accurate.)
That’s a minor scene in the novel, which is about a much bigger plot, and is up-to-the minute, as usual.