France's Nuclear Initiative: A Step Toward Europeanising Deterrence

Abstract

This commentary analyses President Macron's announcement regarding France's nuclear arsenal expansion and deepened nuclear cooperation with EU partners. It argues this represents a significant shift in European deterrence strategy, driven by uncertainty about US extended deterrence and Russian nuclear signalling. The author emphasises that while nuclear cooperation strengthens Europe's defence posture, success requires pairing it with stronger conventional capabilities and clear European thinking about escalation dynamics.

Peer Review

Community peer review and discussion of this publication.