Europe Considers Nuclear Sharing as U.S. Security Role Diminishes

Germany's incoming leadership and France explore European nuclear deterrence amid uncertainty over U.S. commitments to NATO.

Friedrich Merz, Germany's likely next chancellor, has prioritized European independence from the U.S., including discussions on nuclear sharing with France and the U.K.
French President Emmanuel Macron has expressed openness to a European nuclear deterrence framework, marking a shift in strategic dialogue.
Critics argue that European nuclear sharing would be insufficient against Russia's vast arsenal and could undermine NATO's cohesion.
The Trump administration's pivot away from Europe and closer ties with Russia have raised concerns about NATO's future stability.
Proponents of European nuclear sharing see it as a contingency plan, though significant obstacles, including funding, infrastructure, and political risks, remain.