French President Emmanuel Macron has announced his readiness to initiate a discussion on European nuclear deterrence alongside the United Kingdom.
According to Le Parisien, Macron stated that France could help protect other EU countries, particularly in light of security threats from Russia.
“We have a shield; they do not. And they can no longer rely on American nuclear deterrence. We need a strategic dialogue with those who don’t have it,” he said.
Macron stressed that France, together with the UK – one more nuclear power in Europe — is willing to start talks on a European nuclear deterrence strategy. Engaging in such a discussion with European nations that do not possess nuclear weapons “would make France stronger,” he added.
He also noted that at the upcoming European Council meeting in Brussels on March 6, the European Commission would receive a mandate to define the requirements for building a common defense strategy.
“Funding will be quick and unanimous. We want to establish a European industrial and technological base. However, given the uncertainty surrounding long-term American support for Europe, we must mobilize joint financing in the range of hundreds of billions of euros. The time has come for Europe to wake up and recognize its strategic role,” Macron said.
He also stressed the importance of providing Ukraine with European security guarantees, warning that a rearmed and aggressive Russia could easily absorb Moldova and push further westward.
“At our borders stands a rearmed and aggressive Russia. It carries out terrorist attacks and massive disinformation campaigns. Leaving Ukraine without security guarantees means allowing Russia to expand without a buffer zone, absorbing Moldova and reaching Romania’s borders. This is an existential threat to Europe,” Macron said.
Photo: LP/Arnaud Journois
Source: Macron ready to open discussion on European 'nuclear umbrella'
