France plans on positioning nukes in Germany

(MENAFN) France is reportedly considering extending its nuclear deterrent to other EU countries by deploying fighter jets armed with nuclear weapons in Germany, according to a report by The Telegraph. The potential move comes after Friedrich Merz, leader of Germany's Christian Democratic Union (CDU), called for France and the UK to provide nuclear protection for Germany. France's nuclear arsenal, with an estimated 300 warheads, operates independently of NATO, while the UK's nuclear capabilities are integrated within the alliance's defense strategy.

Although German diplomats indicated that formal discussions have not yet begun and a request for an EU nuclear deterrent is unlikely unless the US withdraws its own nuclear forces from Germany, the CDU is reportedly interested in securing a "nuclear umbrella" and is willing to fund it. The deployment of French nuclear-armed fighter jets in Germany could also serve as a catalyst for the UK to follow suit, sources suggest.

A French official noted that the deployment would not be difficult and could send a strong message to Russia amid ongoing concerns about potential Russian aggression, which Moscow has repeatedly denied. French President Emmanuel Macron has previously advocated for a stronger European defense posture, including a “European army” and increased military spending, in response to rising tensions with Russia and dissatisfaction with US commitments to European security.

Despite these concerns, Russia has consistently denied any intent to attack NATO, with President Vladimir Putin describing such fears as “nonsense.” The Kremlin maintains that its nuclear doctrine only permits the use of nuclear weapons if Russia’s sovereignty or existence is threatened, and it has repeatedly criticized NATO’s expansion as a key factor in the escalation of the Ukraine conflict.

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