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25 February 2025 – Europe may be on the verge of a strategic change in security. France is considering the deployment of its nuclear-capable fighter jets in Germany as a powerful signal to Vladimir Putin and an attempt to strengthen European nuclear security in the event of a US withdrawal from the region.
This information was reported by The Telegraph, citing sources in French diplomatic circles.
European Nuclear Safety: New Challenges and Threats
Against the backdrop of possible changes in transatlantic relations, in particular due to the threats of the Donald Trump administration to withdraw some US forces from the Old World, European leaders are increasingly thinking about their own defence mechanisms.
France, which possesses its own nuclear arsenal, is demonstrating its readiness to take on some of the responsibility for European security. According to an unnamed French official:
“It shouldn’t be difficult to deploy a few French nuclear fighter jets in Germany, and it would send a strong message to Putin.”
Political context: Germany, France and the role of Britain
The idea of deploying French nuclear forces in Germany is gaining traction in the context of recent statements by Friedrich Merz, the favourite to become the next German Chancellor. He recently called on France and the United Kingdom to strengthen European nuclear security in an effort to reduce the continent’s dependence on the United States.
On Sunday, French President Emmanuel Macron discussed the possibility of such a move with Merz before his meeting at the White House, where he planned to present Donald Trump with a plan for European security and defence of Ukraine.
Diplomats in Berlin also suggested that the French initiative puts additional pressure on British Prime Minister Keir Starmer to join the plan and reaffirm Britain’s willingness to take a more active role in strengthening European security.
“If the French deploy their nuclear forces in Germany, the British will have to respond symmetrically,” said one Berlin diplomat.
What will change for Europe?
Currently, US forces provide a nuclear shield for Europe, including deploying about 100 nuclear warheads at bases in Germany. However, a possible US withdrawal from this agreement could create a vacuum in nuclear deterrence.
Possible consequences of the deployment of French nuclear forces:
– A strong political signal from Russia that Europe is ready to defend itself.
– Strengthening France’s role in European security and nuclear deterrence.
– Pressure on the UK to join the European nuclear umbrella.
– Tensions between NATO and Russia could rise.
The main factor is the US
Despite the discussion of these plans, sources emphasise that France will not take the final step without clear signals from the United States. As long as US nuclear forces remain in Europe, the Paris initiative will remain a signal rather than a concrete step.
If the United States actually withdraws from European nuclear security, France could become a major player in maintaining stability on the continent.
Europe is at a crossroads. Dependence on the US nuclear shield may be diminishing, and European countries must decide whether they are ready to take responsibility for their own security in the new geopolitical environment.
