Norway ready to come under France's nuclear protection, Prime Minister says
Photo: Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre (Getty Images)
Norway will join French President Emmanuel Macron’s initiative on "forward deterrence," which involves discussions on how France’s nuclear weapons could strengthen Europe’s security, Nettavisen reports.
Previously, French nuclear weapons were linked exclusively to France’s own security. Now Paris is open to dialogue with close allies on how its nuclear arsenal could contribute to European security and deterrence against military threats. Macron launched the initiative in early March this year.
"We will continue discussions with France on how the nuclear initiative can contribute to this," Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre said.
Alongside Norway, nine other European countries have joined the French initiative: the United Kingdom, Germany, Poland, the Netherlands, Sweden, Denmark, Belgium, and Greece.
For the Norwegian government, it is important that France consults with the United States and NATO on this process.
Norway does not change its nuclear policy
Støre emphasized that participation in the French initiative does not change Norway’s position on nuclear weapons.
The country maintains a ban on the deployment of nuclear weapons on Norwegian territory in peacetime.
"Our deterrence will continue to be carried out through NATO. The United States has made it clear that nuclear guarantees for Europe remain firm. France’s capability is a contribution to NATO’s comprehensive deterrence," the Prime Minister said.
Narvik agreement with France
On Wednesday in Paris, Norway and France signed a bilateral defense agreement — the Narvik Agreement.
The document was initialed by Norwegian Defense Minister Tore O. Sandvik and French Minister of Defense Catherine Vautrin.
The name refers to the countries’ joint efforts during World War II, which secured the first Allied victory in that war.
The agreement includes mutual defense provisions, with both countries committing to support each other, including militarily.
It also provides for closer cooperation in hybrid warfare, maritime security, space, cybersecurity, defense industry cooperation, and support for Ukraine.
"We are living in the most serious security policy situation since the Second World War," Støre emphasized.
Over the past six months, Norway has also signed similar defense agreements with Germany and the United Kingdom.
Earlier, RBC-Ukraine reported that on March 5, 2025, French President Emmanuel Macron announced the start of strategic discussions on protecting the entire European continent with French nuclear weapons.
Previously, France’s nuclear capability was linked exclusively to its own security. The shift in approach was caused by Russia’s war in Ukraine and Donald Trump’s doubts about US commitments to NATO and the EU.
Later, Poland and Sweden were the first to confirm serious talks with Paris on a French nuclear umbrella. Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, Greece, and Denmark also took part in the discussions.
