Germany turns to France for support, can’t trust US anymore

Germany is showing new openness to discussions on European nuclear deterrence, particularly with France, as fears mount over the reliability of US military protection under President Donald Trump. French President Emmanuel Macron has long proposed talks involving France’s nuclear arsenal, but Germany previously hesitated. Now, Friedrich Merz, leader of Germany’s CDU and likely next chancellor, signals readiness for dialogue.

For decades, Germany has relied on the US nuclear shield, with around 20 American nuclear bombs stationed in Germany under NATO’s “nuclear sharing” arrangement. However, Trump’s threats to scale back US defense commitments have shifted the strategic landscape.

Though German public opinion remains cautious about Germany developing its own nuclear weapons — and Merz firmly rejects this option — interest in a closer partnership with France and the UK is growing. Both nations maintain independent nuclear forces, with France operating 290 warheads via submarines and Rafale jets, while Britain’s deterrent is entirely submarine-based.

Security experts caution that French and British nuclear weapons are tightly controlled by their respective governments and not easily integrated into NATO’s joint command like US weapons. Nonetheless, joint exercises and strategic cooperation between German, French, and British forces are being explored to bolster European defense autonomy.

The move underscores Germany’s intent to realign its defense strategy and reduce reliance on the US, while reinforcing Europe’s security amid rising global threats.

Germany’s Political Shift: Conservative Victory, AfD Surge, and Trump’s Praise

Germany’s chaotic New Year’s Eve sees explosions, injuries, and arrests

#GermanyFranceDefense #NuclearDeterrence #EuropeanSecurity #TrumpPolicyShift