French Officials Welcome Merz’s Comments on European Nuclear Defense
Prominent French, German, and British politicians, officials, and analysts have responded positively to remarks made by Friedrich Merz regarding European nuclear security. Even some of Merz’s political opponents privately admit that engaging with Britain and France on nuclear deterrence is a logical and necessary step.
A Major Shift in Post-War Politics
According to a French military policy official, Merz’s statement is unprecedented for a leading figure of Germany’s Christian Democrats. “For a potential future chancellor to make such a statement is a significant development. I can’t recall anything comparable in the post-World War II era,” the official said.
The official further emphasized the potential benefits of this shift, noting that Europe’s reliance on the U.S. for defense has led to strategic complacency. “For decades, under the pretext of transatlantic cooperation, we’ve ceded control over defense matters to America. Now, this situation offers an opportunity for Europe to take responsibility for its own security,” they added.
A ‘Striking’ Intervention
Jean-Louis Thiériot, a former French deputy defense minister and current member of the National Assembly’s defense committee, described Merz’s statement as “striking.”
“His remarks show how seriously he views the risk of strategic disconnection from the U.S., and the possible end of the American nuclear umbrella,” Thiériot explained. This represents a significant shift from previous attitudes, when France’s nuclear deterrent was often dismissed due to its relatively smaller arsenal compared to the U.S. and Russia.
“This development reflects both the gravity of the situation within NATO and the increasing recognition of French and British nuclear capabilities,” he concluded.
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