French President Emmanuel Macron has proposed plans to discuss extending France’s nuclear deterrence to protect Europe, citing growing threats from Russia and uncertainty over U.S. commitments. As the EU’s only nuclear power, France has historically maintained an independent nuclear policy, but Germany’s Chancellor-in-waiting Friedrich Merz has called for a “nuclear sharing” debate.
Macron warned that Europe must take more responsibility for its defense as Russia expands its military capabilities and the U.S. signals a reduced role in NATO. He also proposed long-term military support for Ukraine and suggested European forces could help uphold a future peace deal.
Macron stressed that control over France’s nuclear weapons remains solely in the hands of its president, but his proposal has faced domestic criticism, with far-right leader Marine Le Pen rejecting any move to share France’s nuclear capabilities.
