Germany and France Align on Nuclear Defense Strategy Amidst Growing Security Concerns
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz signaled a potential shift in Berlin’s defense posture while campaigning, expressing openness to Germany’s involvement in a cooperative nuclear strategy, a significant change after decades of refusal to consider similar proposals, reports 24brussels.
France’s nuclear doctrine includes a “European dimension” aimed at protecting the country’s vital interests, although the specifics of this dimension and the conditions under which France might utilize its nuclear capabilities beyond its borders remain deliberately ambiguous.
In contrast to the UK, France does not participate in NATO’s nuclear planning group, positioning itself independently within European security frameworks.
During meetings on Friday, both France and Germany committed to the implementation of defense spending targets set during this year’s NATO summit, specifically aiming to increase expenditures to 5 percent of GDP by 2030 and to enhance military arsenals.
Additionally, the two nations announced the launch of a Franco-German initiative to create a European early-warning system, designated as JEWEL, which will incorporate a space-based missile detection network, based on the ODIN’s EYE project, along with ground-based radar systems. This initiative is open to other European nations looking to bolster collective security.
France and Germany also advocated for a more pronounced role for the EU in supporting Ukraine, as well as in broader European defense matters. This reflects a continued commitment to a unified European response to security challenges, emphasizing cooperation in both military and diplomatic efforts.
