Feb 21 • 04:30 UTC 🇪🇸 Spain El País

The meaning of French-German nuclear dialogue: no one trusts the US

The recent French-German nuclear dialogue highlights Europe’s need for self-reliance in defense amid distrust of US commitments.

Recent European developments have revealed the necessary backbone for Europe to confront unscrupulous powers while exposing humiliations borne from excessive deference to Trumpism. One significant development is the opening of nuclear dialogue between France and Germany, which holds considerable political weight. Historically, the French have proposed integrating their nuclear defense as a protective shield for Europe since De Gaulle's era, yet Germany previously ignored these suggestions due to its strong reliance on NATO and the US for security.

The current German Chancellor, Friedrich Merz, has begun to shift this narrative by announcing a renewed commitment to the strategic nuclear dialogue with France, signaling a potential evolution in Germany's defense strategy. This change may reflect a growing realization among German leaders that reliance on American military assurance is fraught with risk, especially in light of geopolitical tensions exacerbated by recent US administrations. The idea of a more autonomous European defense framework is gaining traction, as nations consider the implications of a less reliable American ally.

This dialogue signifies not only a strategic recalibration within Europe but also emphasizes the urgency for EU nations to develop a cohesive defense policy independent of US influence. With ongoing global instability, characterized by revisionist powers, the necessity for Europe to cultivate its own security measures is clearer. The French-German collaboration could pave the way for a stronger European geopolitical presence, capable of safeguarding its members while navigating a complex international landscape.

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