France, Germany to Enter Close-Cooperation on Nuclear Deterrence

France and Germany have agreed to deepen cooperation on nuclear deterrence as part of efforts to strengthen Europe’s security.

In a joint declaration, French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced the creation of a high-level nuclear steering group. The body will coordinate defense strategy discussions, including the balance between conventional forces, missile defense systems, and France’s nuclear capabilities.

Practical steps will begin this year. Germany will participate in French nuclear-related exercises with conventional forces, and officials from both countries will conduct joint visits to strategic military sites. 

The two nations also plan to expand cooperation on conventional defense capabilities with European partners.

The cooperation will continue to rely on U.S. extended deterrence, including American nuclear weapons deployed in Europe, as well as the independent nuclear forces of France and the United Kingdom. 

The new framework is intended to support, not replace, NATO’s nuclear deterrence and nuclear-sharing arrangements.

Both countries also reaffirmed their commitment to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), Article 5 of the North Atlantic Treaty, and Article 42(7) of the Treaty on European Union.