Germany and France announced on Friday that the German military will join a nuclear exercise led by France to strengthen European nuclear cooperation. This initiative reflects a growing desire for European defence self-reliance amid concerns about US security commitments. Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that German conventional forces will participate in the “exercise before the year’s end, complementing NATO’s nuclear sharing agreement.
Merz noted that past German leaders rejected offers for nuclear cooperation. Still, the current global landscape necessitates new approaches. He added that Germany’s role will initially involve conventional means, with potential for a new doctrine in the future. French President Emmanuel Macron emphasised that advanced deterrence is vital for collective security and that Germany will play a “NATO guard role” in these efforts.
Macron explained that the collaboration would include joint exercises and the sharing of operational practices, without providing specific details on the measures. He also clarified that enhanced nuclear deterrence would not require financial commitment from Germany.
On Thursday, French Rafale and German Eurofighter jets took part in a joint in-flight refuelling exercise, symbolising the start of this cooperation. France has called for increased nuclear collaboration among European countries following Brexit, as it remains the EU’s sole nuclear power.
Germany’s participation bolsters its rearmament plan to develop Europe’s strongest conventional military by 2039. The two leaders intend to solidify their cooperation as Macron’s presidency nears its end, amid uncertainty about future commitments to deeper European integration.
This article” used information from The Associated Press.
