The Chancellor of Germany, Friedrich Merz, announced discussions with French President Emmanuel Macron regarding the strengthening of European nuclear deterrence. During his speech at the Munich Security Conference, Merz emphasized that these initiatives aim to enhance the collective security of European countries.
This is reported by Kyiv24
Nuclear Deterrence within NATO
Merz noted that the new nuclear deterrence system will be fully integrated into NATO mechanisms, which will help avoid zones with varying levels of security among European states. According to him, Germany continues to strictly adhere to all legal obligations within the Alliance, and the issue of replacing NATO is not being considered.
“I have already begun initial negotiations with French President Emmanuel Macron regarding European nuclear deterrence,” Merz stated while speaking at the Munich Security Conference on February 13.
Significance for the Future Security of Europe
The Chancellor also highlighted the necessity for Europe to become an influential player in global politics and to formulate its own security strategy. He reminded attendees of Article 42 of the Treaty on European Union, which obliges member states to provide mutual assistance in the event of armed aggression.
As of February 2026, France remains the only country in the European Union that possesses its own nuclear arsenal. Merz’s remarks came amid active discussions about strengthening the EU’s defense capabilities, increasing the defense budget, and striving for greater independence in security matters, which has been initiated by the United States.
It was previously reported that France is prepared to deploy its nuclear forces to protect European partners, and French fighter jets armed with nuclear weapons may be stationed in Germany. Russia, for its part, has labeled such statements from President Macron as a “threat” to itself.