On May 14, 2025, French President Emmanuel Macron announced his readiness to begin talks with European allies on the deployment of French nuclear weapons on their territory to strengthen deterrence against Russia. Speaking in an interview with TF1, Macron stressed that tense relations with the new US administration led by Donald Trump and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine are forcing Europe to seek its own nuclear defense mechanisms. “We must be prepared for a new era in which Russia poses a threat to Europe. I have opened discussions with Germany, Poland and other partners on how to extend our nuclear deterrence policy to the continent,” he said.

With around 290 nuclear warheads, France is the only EU country with an independent nuclear arsenal. According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), around 230 warheads are deployed on four Triomphant-class nuclear submarines, while 60 tactical warheads (ASMP-A) are carried on Rafale fighter jets. Unlike the UK, whose nuclear forces are integrated into NATO structures, France maintains autonomy, making its proposal unique. Macron has previously proposed a “European nuclear umbrella,” but the idea has gained new momentum after Friedrich Merz won the German election, calling for Paris and London to take a greater role in Europe’s nuclear defense.

The initiative is prompted by uncertainty surrounding the US commitments to NATO. Trump, having returned to power, has repeatedly stated his intention to reduce the American military presence in Europe, including nuclear forces. According to RBC, about 100 American B61 nuclear bombs are deployed in Belgium, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and Turkey as part of the Nuclear Sharing program. However, as The Telegraph noted, France is ready to deploy its Rafale fighters with ASMP-A nuclear missiles, for example, in Germany, if the US withdraws its contingent.