Germany to Forge European Nuclear Umbrella with France Amid Trump's Threats

• Germany, led by Chancellor Friedrich Merz, is exploring a nuclear umbrella for European countries, partnering with France, in response to former US President Donald Trump's security threats.
• Trump's statements questioning US defense commitments to NATO allies and his past actions have eroded trust among European nations, pushing them towards self-reliance.
• Germany aims to strengthen European security by potentially leveraging British and French nuclear arsenals as a 'European asset' rather than developing its own weapons.
• Despite international treaties like the 1990 'Four Plus Two' agreement and the 1969 NPT prohibiting Germany from developing nuclear weapons, Merz seeks diplomatic solutions for joint security.
• German officials emphasize their technical capabilities can contribute significantly to a joint European nuclear initiative, signaling a shift in geopolitical strategy.

Why It Matters: Germany plans a European nuclear umbrella with France to counter US security blackmail and bolster self-reliance.