Europe Macron: Check protection of allies with our nuclear weapons

SDA

5.3.2025 - 21:47

FILED - French President Emmanuel Macron. Photo: Gaetan Claessens/EU Council/dpa - ATTENTION: editorial use only and only if the credit mentioned above is referenced in full
FILED - French President Emmanuel Macron. Photo: Gaetan Claessens/EU Council/dpa - ATTENTION: editorial use only and only if the credit mentioned above is referenced in full
Keystone

French President Emmanuel Macron is considering placing allied countries under the protection of French nuclear weapons. France's nuclear deterrent has always played an explicit role in maintaining peace and security in Europe since 1964, Macron said in a televised speech this evening. "But in response to the historic call of the future German Chancellor, I have decided to open the strategic debate on the protection of our allies on the European continent through our deterrent."

Keystone-SDA

However, the decision-making sovereignty over French nuclear weapons remains in the hands of France. "Whatever happens, the decision was and always will be in the hands of the President of the Republic, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces," said Macron.

During the election campaign, Merz had suggested talks with the European nuclear powers on nuclear sharing by Germany.