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By Staff Writer with Agencies
Paris, March 5 – French President Emmanuel Macron has suggested extending France’s nuclear deterrence to its European allies in response to what he described as the growing threat posed by Russia. Speaking in a nationally televised address, Macron emphasized that ignoring Moscow’s increasing aggression would be “madness.”
His remarks come just ahead of an emergency summit of European Union leaders in Brussels on March 6, where discussions on increasing military budgets will be a key focus. The meeting follows concerns over the United States’ commitment to NATO and European security under President Donald Trump’s administration.
Macron reaffirmed France’s nuclear autonomy, stating, “Our nuclear deterrent protects us: It’s complete, sovereign, French through and through.” However, in response to a call from Germany’s likely next chancellor, Friedrich Merz, he signaled openness to broader discussions about extending this protection to France’s European partners.
Strengthening European Defense
The French president underscored the urgent need for Europe to bolster its defense spending, vowing to continue supporting Ukraine as the war against Russia enters its fourth year. “Russia has become a threat for France and Europe,” Macron declared. “To watch and do nothing would be madness.”
While expressing hope that the U.S. would remain a reliable ally, Macron cautioned that Europe must be prepared for other scenarios. “Europe’s future does not have to be decided in Washington or Moscow,” he said, warning that the era of strategic complacency in Europe was over.
The Role of France’s Nuclear Arsenal
Macron did not provide specifics on how France’s nuclear deterrent might be extended but noted that discussions on European nuclear security were now essential. France’s nuclear program, originally developed under President Charles de Gaulle in the 1960s, remains independent of the United States, unlike the nuclear forces of the U.K. within NATO.
His proposal has also found support among political opponents, with National Rally leader Jordan Bardella stating, “Since de Gaulle, the French nuclear umbrella protects, by definition, certain neighbors and certain European partners.”
According to the Federation of American Scientists, Russia and the U.S. hold approximately 88% of the world’s nuclear warheads, with Russia possessing around 5,580 and the U.S. 5,044. France’s stockpile is estimated at 290 warheads, compared to Britain’s 225 and China’s 500.
Uncertain U.S. Commitment Raises Alarm in Europe
Concerns over Washington’s commitment to Ukraine and European security have intensified following Trump’s decision to pause U.S. military aid to Ukraine. Additionally, CIA officials recently confirmed restricted intelligence-sharing with Kyiv, deepening worries about U.S. support.
Trump’s recent outreach to Russian President Vladimir Putin and high-level U.S.-Russian meetings in Saudi Arabia have fueled further unease among European leaders. A tense meeting between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House also highlighted growing divisions, with Trump chastising Zelenskyy for being insufficiently appreciative of U.S. support.
In response to Macron’s remarks, Zelenskyy expressed gratitude on social media, stating, “We deeply appreciate the leadership and efforts of all those supporting Ukraine and strengthening Europe’s defense capabilities.”
European Summit to Address Security Strategy
As European leaders convene in Brussels, the primary focus will be developing mechanisms to ensure the continent’s security independently of U.S. guarantees. Merz stressed the urgency of this effort, stating, “Europe must now make very big efforts, very quickly, to strengthen the defense capability of our continent.”
Looking ahead, Macron announced plans to host a meeting in Paris next week with European military chiefs to discuss the potential deployment of peacekeeping forces to Ukraine should a cease-fire or long-term agreement be reached.
“To ensure that Ukraine is not invaded by Russia again after a peace agreement, we must prepare for this,” Macron said. “We are working together with our friends in the U.K., Germany, and several other European countries.”
With tensions escalating and Europe reassessing its defense posture, Macron’s proposal to expand France’s nuclear deterrent could mark a significant shift in the continent’s strategic landscape.
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