Europe: France Wants to Extend Its Nuclear Umbrella to 10 Countries Amid Russian Threat

Emmanuel Macron wants to expand France’s nuclear deterrence in Europe through an initiative involving ten countries. It could include French Rafale aircraft capable of carrying nuclear weapons, along with joint exercises, intelligence sharing and early-warning systems. The United Kingdom, Germany, Poland, Belgium, the Netherlands, Denmark, Sweden, Norway and Greece are among the participating countries, but France retains sole authority over any use of its arsenal. Italy declined to participate as the initiative takes shape amid the Russian threat and uncertainty over how long the United States will remain militarily engaged in Europe.