Europe Considers Nuclear Defense as U.S. Weakens NATO Ties

Trump's disengagement from Ukraine and NATO prompts European leaders to explore independent nuclear deterrence strategies.

President Trump's dismissal of Ukraine's President Zelensky and critical comments on NATO have shaken Europe's trust in U.S. security commitments.
European leaders, including Germany's Friedrich Merz and France's Emmanuel Macron, are calling for discussions on a joint nuclear defense strategy to reduce reliance on U.S. protection.
France and the U.K., the only European nuclear powers, face challenges in adapting their national nuclear doctrines for broader European defense needs.
Experts highlight the limited capabilities of European nuclear arsenals compared to Russia and the logistical and political hurdles of establishing a shared nuclear deterrent.
The uncertainty surrounding U.S. military presence in Europe and Trump's focus on domestic and non-European priorities has raised concerns about long-term transatlantic relations.