France Boosts Nuclear Arsenal, Extends Deterrence to Allies

French President Emmanuel Macron announced a new nuclear strategy for France, aiming to strengthen Europe's independence and security. This strategy includes increasing France's nuclear warheads, the first such increase since 1992, and allowing the temporary deployment of its nuclear-armed aircraft to allied countries. Talks have begun with Germany, the United Kingdom, Poland, the Netherlands, Belgium, Greece, Sweden, and Denmark for these arrangements, as well as for participation in deterrence exercises and French nuclear activities. Macron emphasized that decision-making on nuclear weapon use would remain solely with France. This move comes amid European concerns over U.S. commitments under Donald Trump and growing fears of Russian aggression, particularly in Ukraine. While European partners generally welcomed the strategy, the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons criticized it as a step backward and a potential provocation to Russia.