French President Emmanuel Macron has announced plans to consult with European allies regarding the potential use of France’s nuclear deterrent to safeguard the continent against perceived Russian threats. This move comes amid fears that the United States may reduce its involvement in European security.
In a recent address, Macron described Russia as a significant “threat to France and Europe.” He remarked on the need to engage in a strategic discussion around how France’s nuclear capabilities could bolster the protection of European allies. Notably, France is currently the sole nuclear power within the European Union.
This initiative aligns with calls from Friedrich Merz, a recent victor in German elections, who has advocated for discussions around “nuclear sharing” with France. While the UK also possesses nuclear capabilities, it is not an EU member.
During an upcoming summit in Brussels, EU leaders will address nuclear deterrence, alongside ongoing support for Ukraine and broader European defence strategies. Macron emphasised the importance of European autonomy in matters of security, asserting that decisions affecting Europe’s future should no longer be left to Washington or Moscow.
He highlighted Russia’s intensified military spending, which now constitutes 40% of its state budget, alongside plans to increase its military personnel and equipment significantly by 2030. Macron expressed concerns over Russia’s ambitions, querying how anyone could trust that it would halt its aggression at Ukraine.
To ensure long-term stability after potential peace negotiations with Ukraine, Macron suggested that European allies should provide sustained military support to Ukraine and consider deploying European forces. While these forces would not engage in frontline combat, they would play a crucial role in guaranteeing that any peace agreements are respected.
Next week, Macron plans to convene military leaders from European nations interested in contributing to this endeavour in Paris. This strategic pivot towards greater European military self-reliance comes in response to assertions from the Trump administration, indicating that the current level of US engagement in Europe might not be permanent.
In related news, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has publicly defended British troops following comments from US Vice President Kamala Harris, who appeared to diminish the UK’s military efforts. Starmer used parliamentary time to honour the British soldiers who lost their lives alongside American forces in recent conflicts, highlighting the contributions of UK troops in the fight against terrorism.
In summary, Macron’s remarks signal a significant shift towards reinforcing European defence mechanisms, with an emphasis on nuclear deterrence and long-term support for Ukraine amidst rising Russian military ambitions.