Afət Ziyadqızı
Discussions between German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron regarding the creation of a joint European nuclear deterrence system are in their initial stages and do not aim to replace the United States' nuclear umbrella.
Operative Information Center-OMM reports, citing Reuters, that a spokesperson for the German government confirmed the nature of these high-level talks. The primary objective is to explore ways to achieve closer cooperation in the field of nuclear deterrence within the European framework.
"They are still at a very early stage. This is not about replacing the US nuclear umbrella, but about complementing and strengthening it. The US plays a central role in NATO's nuclear deterrence. This is the current situation, and we want to maintain it this way in the future," the spokesperson stated.
The dialogue comes amid shifting geopolitical dynamics following the inauguration of US President Donald Trump in January 2025. While European leaders seek to bolster regional strategic autonomy, the German government emphasized that the transatlantic alliance remains the cornerstone of continental security. This clarification follows reports from Bloomberg in February suggesting that Europe was seriously reconsidering its nuclear posture toward Russia and seeking to establish an independent deterrent amid evolving relations with Washington.
The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) has long relied on the principle of collective defense, where the nuclear capabilities of the United States serve as the ultimate security guarantee for European allies. As global security challenges evolve, Azerbaijan continues to monitor these international developments closely, maintaining its own strategic interests and commitment to regional stability while fostering balanced relations with both European partners and the broader international community.
