has said he is "open" to the idea of extending 's nuclear deterrence to other European countries, reigniting discussions about the future of European security. The French President, speaking on TF1 television, said that Paris is willing to consider deploying its in other European nations as part of broader talks to strengthen the continent's defence.
As Europe's only nuclear powers, France and the UK are the continent's primary deterrents against nuclear threats. France holds roughly 280 warheads, which can be launched from submarines and aircraft. Mr Macron's proposal suggests such weapons could offer additional security to other European countries, especially given concerns about the US's shifting focus towards the Indo-Pacific and a perceived diminishing commitment to Europe's defence.
Several European nations, including Germany, Poland, and the Baltic states, have expressed interest in the possibility of hosting French nuclear weapons.
However, Mr Macron made it clear that these discussions would not replace the US's nuclear guarantee to Europe.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has voiced support for the idea, though he emphasised that it should not undermine existing security arrangements with the US.
Mr Macron also stressed that control over France's nuclear arsenal would remain solely with the French president, ensuring that ultimate authority over the use of the weapons rests in Paris.
He said: "We must help defend itself, but we do not want to unleash World War 3."
Nevertheless, he added: "The Americans have the bombs on planes in Belgium, Germany, Italy, Turkey.
"We are ready to open this discussion. I will define the framework in a very specific way in the weeks and months to come."
The Kremlin has been quick to criticise Mr Macron's comments, with spokesperson Dmitry Peskov warning that the spread of nuclear weapons across Europe would only worsen tensions.
He said: "The proliferation of nuclear weapons on the European continent is something that will not add security, predictability and stability."
