Europe Explores a Shared Nuclear Defense Plan

European nations have begun discussing a potential shared nuclear umbrella, signaling a major shift in strategic thinking as reliance on the United States comes under question. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz confirmed these preliminary talks are underway to supplement existing security agreements.

Merz emphasized that while the conversations are happening, they remain in the early stages and no immediate decisions are expected. "We know that we have to reach a number of strategic and military policy decisions, but at the moment, the time is not ripe," he told reporters.

US Alliance Doubts Fuel New Defense Talks

The move comes amid growing transatlantic friction. The Trump administration has repeatedly challenged traditional alliances, prompting European leaders to reassess their defense posture. Europe has long depended on the U.S. and its nuclear arsenal for security but has recently increased military spending in response to pressure from Washington.

President Trump’s actions have unsettled European allies, including his suggestion of purchasing Greenland from Denmark, a NATO partner, and his threats to impose tariffs. He has also previously implied that the U.S. might not defend allies who fail to meet defense spending targets, fueling concerns about the reliability of American security guarantees.

Germany's Role and Historical Constraints

For Germany, any discussion of nuclear armament is particularly sensitive. The country is prohibited from developing its own nuclear weapons under two key treaties: the 1990 "Four Plus Two" agreement that paved the way for German reunification and the 1969 nuclear non-proliferation treaty.

However, Merz noted that these obligations do not prevent Germany from exploring joint defense solutions with its partners. The talks specifically involve Europe’s only two nuclear powers, Britain and France. "These talks are taking place," Merz stated, adding that they "are also not in conflict with nuclear-sharing with the United States of America."

Technical Capacity for a European Initiative

Adding weight to the discussions, Thomas Roewekamp, the head of Germany's parliamentary defense committee, said the country possesses the technical expertise to contribute to a joint European nuclear weapon.

"We do not have missiles or warheads, but we do have a significant technological advantage that we could contribute to a joint European initiative," said Roewekamp, a member of Merz's Christian Democratic Union party. This suggests that while legally constrained from building its own arsenal, Germany could play a crucial role in a collaborative European defense framework.