Germany's Merz aims for talks with UK, France on joint nuclear weapons
Photo: Friedrich Merz, leader of the CDU party and future German Chancellor (Getty Images)
German chancellor-in-waiting Friedrich Merz is open to negotiations regarding the joint use of nuclear weapons between the United Kingdom and France. However, he does not rule out the protection of the United States, reports The Guardian.
According to the publication, the leader of Germany's CDU party stated that he would like to hold talks with France and the UK on the joint use of their nuclear weapons, but not as a replacement for America's nuclear defense of Europe.
"Sharing nuclear weapons is an issue that we need to talk about …we have to become stronger together in nuclear deterrence," Merz said in an interview with Deutschlandfunk radio on Sunday.
The politician emphasized the need to talk with both countries. However, he added that the UK and France's nuclear weapons should complement the American nuclear shield, which Germany would like to preserve.
Additionally, due to its history in World War II, Germany has committed to maintaining a non-nuclear defense under several international agreements. Nevertheless, it participates in NATO's nuclear sharing program.
Macron's nuclear initiative
French President Emmanuel Macron has decided to begin discussions on using France's nuclear weapons to protect the entire European Union.
"Our nuclear deterrence forces protect us. They are French. Since 1964, they have always played a role in maintaining peace and security in Europe. I have decided to launch strategic discussions on the protection of the entire continent with our nuclear weapons. The final decision will rest with the heads of state and military commanders of European countries," he stated.
Following this proposal, the leaders of Poland and Denmark, on Thursday, March 6, indicated that they were open to Macron's nuclear initiative. They want to discuss how France's deterrence forces could protect Europe.
Media outlets also reported that France could deploy its nuclear-capable fighter jets in Germany.
