Germany and France to Include Nuclear Deterrence in Defence Meetings
Defence-related meetings between the EU’s two largest countries will now include nuclear deterrence, reshaping the continent’s security landscape, reports 24brussels.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz confirmed the inclusion of nuclear deterrence discussions during a joint press conference with French President Emmanuel Macron. This initiative signifies a strategic shift towards Europe’s independent security framework.
The discussions will take place between the defence ministers of both countries in their recently established defence and security council format, with a meeting scheduled for late on Friday.
Merz clarified that this initiative would not replace NATO but rather reinforce its European component, although specific details regarding the agenda were not disclosed.
Germany, echoing similar interests as Poland, has initiated conversations with France and the UK to explore extending their respective nuclear protection beyond national borders. This signals a growing desire among these nations to lessen their reliance on the United States for security assurances.
France’s nuclear arsenal has garnered increasing attention, particularly as Paris maintains full autonomy over its nuclear capabilities. Unlike the UK’s arsenal, which has certain dependencies on the US and NATO, France’s weapons stand independently.
Within Europe, France and the UK remain the only countries with nuclear capabilities, with France estimated to possess 290 warheads and the UK 225, according to the Arms Control Association.
Historically, France has upheld a degree of ambiguity regarding the use of its nuclear arsenal for the defence of its European allies. However, Macron signaled a notable change this summer, indicating France’s readiness to employ nuclear weapons to safeguard European partners against potential aggression from Russia.
The final document from the recent Franco-German meeting outlined plans for a “strategic dialogue,” explicitly incorporating strategies concerning their nuclear arsenals.
