Two retired French generals, André Coustou and Paul Pellizzari, were dismissed from the army for violating the duty of discretion related to their involvement in a controversial open letter.

This letter, published in the ultraconservative magazine Valeurs actuelles in April 2021, criticized the perceived decline of France and raised alarms about threats from 'Islamism' and social unrest.

Despite their retirement, both generals remained subject to recall, which led to their formal dismissal announced on April 19, 2025.

The letter warned of potential military intervention if the 'laxity' in governance continued, igniting a significant political backlash in France.

In their correspondence, the generals expressed concerns over societal division, lawlessness, and community hatred, indicating their willingness to support measures to protect the nation.

Their actions contributed to a broader debate on military involvement in political discourse, which stirred public outcry ahead of the 2022 presidential elections.

Florence Parly, the then-Minister of the Armed Forces, condemned the letter as 'irresponsible' and indicated that disciplinary actions would follow, emphasizing the military's tradition of political neutrality.

The controversy surrounding the letter was particularly pronounced given the French military's expectation to remain apolitical, a principle that has earned it the nickname 'la Grande Muette'.

The publication of the letter coincided with the 60th anniversary of a failed coup by generals opposing President Charles de Gaulle during the Algerian War, adding to its political sensitivity.

Coustou and Pellizzari's letter referenced community hatred fueled by anti-racism and violence from suburban areas, suggesting military intervention if conditions deteriorated.

Additionally, Pellizzari supported a legal complaint filed by Coustou against French officials regarding military aid to Ukraine, which was ultimately dismissed.

The official decrees for their dismissal were published in the Journal officiel on April 21, 2025.