In early this month, French President Macron signed the “Northwood Declaration” during his state visit to the UK, marking the first time the two sides have agreed to coordinate their independent nuclear deterrent forces. On the 17th, German Chancellor Merkel visited the UK and signed the “Kensington Treaty” with the UK. Merkel expressed her willingness to discuss enhancing European defense capabilities through the nuclear deterrent forces of France and the UK, which was met with a response from both countries.
“Europe should figure out how to coexist with Russia”
Regarding the recent high-profile announcements by European countries to advance nuclear cooperation and strengthen armed forces plans, Ulrich Gurt, a political scholar and founder of the “European Peace Plan,” believes that Europe should now focus on figuring out how to coexist with Russia rather than on strengthening its military capabilities, especially nuclear weapons and their deterrence.
“U.S. pressure is increasing European strategic anxiety”
Gurt stated that since taking office, U.S. President Trump has continuously reduced security commitments to Europe, frequently pressuring Europe on issues such as military spending and trade tariffs, leading to a continuous rise in European strategic anxiety. The frequent interactions between the leaders of France, Germany, and the UK aim to enhance Europe’s overall capability to respond to geopolitical security threats and American threats, but these efforts in nuclear weapon cooperation could make the European security situation even more dangerous.
“The European security architecture should consider Russian security”
Gurt emphasized that the common security architecture of Europe should also include Russian security. NATO and Europe are continuously providing weapons to Ukraine and increasing its military expenditure, especially in nuclear weapon cooperation, which cannot lead to lasting peace. Europe should work together with Russia for security.
Besides the recent talks between the leaders of France, Germany, and the UK, France and Germany will also hold a ministerial level meeting at the end of August, where discussions about the application of nuclear deterrence might take place. (CCTV He Junqiang)