Germany’s likely future chancellor, Friedrich Merz, has expressed his desire to discuss nuclear weapons and European security with France and the United Kingdom.
In an interview with Deutschlandfunk, he emphasized the importance of addressing the issue of joint nuclear capabilities.
The joint use of nuclear weapons is a matter we need to discuss, Merz stressed, adding that such an initiative should serve as a “complement” to the existing U.S. nuclear shield.
At the same time, doubts are growing in Europe regarding Washington’s future policies. In particular, questions arise as to whether a potential future U.S. President Donald Trump would continue to ensure Europe’s protection against threats from Russia, given his relations with Moscow.
Merz also stated that Germany does not plan and will not be able to possess its own nuclear weapons. He recalled that the country officially renounced them under the “Two Plus Four” Treaty on German reunification.
