The United States is discussing the possibility of deploying nuclear weapons within the territories of more NATO European member states, with the aim of reassuring its allies. It is believed that even if the United States reduces its conventional military support, it will not weaken its security guarantees for Europe.
According to the British Financial Times, three people familiar with the discussions said that U.S. officials have expressed willingness to expand the number of countries where such dual-capability fighter jets can be deployed, in addition to the existing six countries. Such discussions are underway within NATO.
It is a matter of concern for many European countries that the Trump administration is withdrawing US military forces and key weapons systems from the European continent. Two people familiar with the matter said that the USs initiative to expand nuclear deployments is meant to show that while the United States demands more defense responsibilities from its allies, it will also fulfill its commitment to provide nuclear protection.
According to reports, countries in NATOs Eastern Wing, including Poland and some Baltic states, have shown interest in this matter. Poland has repeatedly publicly expressed its desire to receive American nuclear weapons. This year, Poland also joined a new initiative by France, which explores the possibility of temporarily deploying some of Frances nuclear deterrent equipment among NATO allies.
An informed person involved in the discussion said that the negotiations are being carried out through NATOs official channels. The NATO countries located near the Russian border have the most urgent demands.
However, there is still significant uncertainty regarding the implementation of this nuclear weapons deployment expansion. A source close to the matter said that the United States will not reach an agreement with NATOs European members to expand their nuclear weapons deployments in the short term.
F-35 fighter jet – Interior photograph
According to reports, countries participating in NATOs nuclear sharing program include the UK, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Turkey. These nations are allowed to deploy American dual-capability fighter jets and nuclear weapons. The control of nuclear weapons is entirely under American authority, with access to these weapons subject to unilateral approval by the United States alone.
According to NATOs official statements, the nuclear sharing mechanism allows non-nuclear NATO member states to participate in the alliances nuclear policy formulation and planning. These countries can thus enjoy security without having to develop their own nuclear weapons.
The nuclear weapons stored by the United States in various European countries are under the custody of US military forces. The air forces of the countries where these weapons are stationed are equipped with F-35 and F-15 fighter jets, and they participate in training exercises involving nuclear strikes. Only with authorization from the US side can they carry out tasks related to the delivery of nuclear bombs.
Recently, the United States has been continuously adjusting its defense strategies in Europe. It has significantly reduced the deployment of conventional military forces in Europe, directing military resources towards regions like the Asia-Pacific region. This move has caused panic among NATO allies.
According to reports, although European allies have promised to significantly increase defense budgets in order to address the shortcomings in conventional military capabilities that were previously borne by the United States, the nuclear umbrella provided by the US remains considered an indispensable security asset.
In response to the current changes in the defense landscape between the United States and Europe, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg stated during a NATO foreign ministers meeting last month that all parties within NATO have reached a consensus. Even if the US strategic focus continues to shift outward, Europes overall deterrence and defense capabilities must remain at their original level.
