Mistral CEO Defends Military AI Use Amid Pope Leo Criticism
Mistral chief executive Arthur Mensch has defended the use of artificial intelligence in defence technology after Pope Leo called for tighter international regulation of AI systems.
The Pope warned earlier this week that artificial intelligence could spread misinformation and intensify global conflict. He also criticised the growing use of AI in military operations, urging stronger global oversight of the technology.
However, Mensch argued that Europe cannot afford to ignore the military applications of artificial intelligence while geopolitical rivals continue developing similar capabilities.
Mistral Says Europe Needs AI Defence Capability
Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Mensch said Europe must develop its own AI tools to remain competitive and secure against adversaries using the technology.
He stressed that while peace remains the preferred goal, European nations still need technological capabilities to respond to global threats.
According to Mensch, rival countries are already integrating artificial intelligence into strategic and military systems. As a result, he said Europe cannot remain dependent on foreign technology providers or fall behind in AI development.
Mensch is also a co-founder of Mistral, which positions itself as a European alternative to major U.S. artificial intelligence companies.
Mistral Announces New French Data Centre
Alongside the comments, Mistral announced plans to build a new data centre in Les Ulis, France.
The facility will provide 10 megawatts of computing power and is expected to open during the second half of 2026. The project forms part of the company’s wider €4 billion investment strategy.
Mistral said the new centre will complement existing operations in France and Sweden. In addition, the company aims to increase its total computing capacity to 200 megawatts by the end of 2027 and eventually reach 1 gigawatt by 2030.
The infrastructure will support Mistral’s internal operations while also offering capacity to other artificial intelligence laboratories.
Europe Pushes To Reduce U.S. Tech Dependence
The expansion reflects a broader European effort to strengthen local AI infrastructure and reduce dependence on American technology companies.
French President Emmanuel Macron has strongly supported the development of large-scale data centres in France. He has repeatedly highlighted the country’s energy exports as a competitive advantage for AI infrastructure projects.
However, data-centre developments increasingly face opposition from residents living near proposed sites. Critics have raised concerns over environmental impact, energy consumption and local disruption linked to large facilities.
Growing Public Anxiety Around Artificial Intelligence
Mistral’s announcement also comes amid rising scepticism towards artificial intelligence companies, particularly among younger people.
Recent online videos have shown students booing technology executives during graduation ceremonies in the United States. The incidents reflect wider concerns over the social and economic impact of AI systems.
Mensch acknowledged public anxiety surrounding the technology but suggested such reactions were expected during periods of rapid technological change.
He said societies have historically adapted to major innovations and expressed confidence that artificial intelligence would eventually be used effectively.
With inputs from Reuters
