Macron Proposes Nuclear Protection for European Allies Amid Rising Tensions

PARIS, March 5 (Reuters) – President Emmanuel Macron announced on Wednesday that France is willing to discuss extending its nuclear deterrent protections to European partners, amidst heightened tensions stemming from Russia’s actions. In a televised address to the nation, Macron emphasized the need for Europe to confront growing threats, particularly from Russia.

“Our nuclear deterrent protects us: it’s complete, sovereign, French through and through,” Macron stated. He responded to a call by Friedrich Merz, the future Chancellor of Germany, to open discussions on providing directive nuclear protection to European allies, a move that could redefine France’s strategic military stance.

Although France and Britain are the only nuclear-capable nations in Europe, Macron maintained that the country’s nuclear strategy has historically been defensive, primarily focused on safeguarding its own interests. The proposed discussions could mark a significant shift in this approach.

In his speech, Macron acknowledged public concern regarding Russia’s maneuvers and the shifting dynamics of international relations. He indicated a need for increased defense expenditure but did not specify the amount, stressing, “There will be no tax hikes to finance that, but tough choices will have to be made” to accommodate the rising defense needs.

Addressing voters, Macron remarked, “You are, I know, legitimately worried about the current events, which are disrupting the world order,” underscoring the impact of recent geopolitical upheavals. He reiterated that Russia poses a serious threat, stating, “To watch and do nothing would be madness.” His remarks follow a freeze in U.S. military aid to Ukraine, leading European countries to reconsider their defense strategies.

The call for increased military spending comes as European nations collectively scramble to bolster defenses while ensuring continued support for Ukraine. Macron’s push for enhanced military resource allocation is expected to be a focal point during an extraordinary summit of EU leaders in Brussels, aimed at solidifying military commitments and armament production.

Macron’s historical reference to former President Charles de Gaulle framed France’s nuclear deterrent as independent of external powers, a sentiment echoed in contemporary contexts amidst dialogue around NATO‘s future structure. He stated, “We cannot forget that Russia began its invasion of Ukraine in 2014, and we negotiated the Minsk Accords ceasefire.”

French military capabilities, including air and sea-based deterrents comprising Rafale fighter jets and nuclear submarines, remain operational at the sole discretion of the French president. According to the Federation of American Scientists, France houses approximately 290 nuclear warheads, while the United Kingdom retains 225, highlighting the scale of European nuclear capabilities.

With a keen awareness of the regional security landscape, Macron sought to reassure that the U.S. remains an ally while also expressing a pragmatic readiness for autonomy in defense strategies should circumstances alter unfavorably. “I want to believe that the U.S. will stand by our side, but we must prepare for that not to be the case,” he said.

The potential for a peace plan involving France, Britain, and Ukraine is reportedly in the works, aimed at presenting assurances to both the U.S. and Ukraine regarding Stability, following concerns raised during the recent tumultuous engagement between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.