Leading figures of the group in a state of heightened vigilance - Leader of Legislation's Assembly
In a groundbreaking proposal, Jens Spahn, leader of the CDU/CSU parliamentary group in Germany, has called for the creation of a pan-European nuclear shield. This initiative aims to enhance Europe's strategic autonomy and deterrence posture, beyond the existing American nuclear umbrella stationed in Germany.
Spahn envisions a system where European NATO members could gain shared control or access to nuclear weapons, potentially including France's and the United Kingdom's warheads, or the development of new European nuclear weapons under Germany's leadership. However, significant obstacles exist, notably France's reluctance to grant Germany access to its nuclear arsenal.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz supports maintaining the current US nuclear sharing arrangement for the foreseeable future but acknowledges the need to start dialogue on European nuclear cooperation. He emphasised that it is a long-term issue with many unresolved questions. Merz accepted France's proposal to negotiate cooperation but made it clear that no immediate new initiatives beyond discussions are planned.
Some German politicians, including Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, oppose replacing the American nuclear shield, underlining continued dependence on US nuclear deterrence. Public statements from the German government clarify that Germany has no imminent plans to obtain its own nuclear weapons.
European partners, especially France and the UK, remain cautious or hesitant regarding sharing nuclear assets directly. However, France has indicated possible willingness to station its nuclear-capable fighter jets in Germany, which might partially support the concept of a European nuclear deterrent.
The debate on a nuclear shield for Europe is ongoing, with key partners urging a long-term, careful approach to any such nuclear cooperation. European partners may consider more security policy engagement from Germany to be beneficial, but there is historical awareness of the dangers of German dominance.
This proposal by Spahn marks a significant shift in Germany's foreign policy discourse, signalling a desire for increased German involvement in international affairs. The new German government, under Chancellor Angela Merkel, has already announced that the Bundeswehr should become the "strongest conventional army in Europe."
It is important to note that Spahn is driving this discussion, initiating a debate on a potential German leadership role in the nuclear shield for Europe. However, speculations about a leadership role in nuclear deterrence can quickly erode goodwill and trust among European partners.
In 2005, Spahn, who is currently the chairman of the Union faction, suffered an acute appendicitis during a visit to a remote outpost in Afghanistan. His service in the Defense Committee in 2002 and his near-appointment as Defense Minister in July 2019 further underscore his commitment to Germany's defence and foreign policy.
The debate continues to be led in relevant foreign policy circles, with Emmanuel Macron, Friedrich Merz, and Olaf Scholz among those previously involved. As the discussion progresses, it is crucial to maintain a balanced approach, ensuring that Europe's security is strengthened without causing unnecessary tension or undermining the trust between European allies.
The Commission, adhering to the ongoing debate on Europe's nuclear shield, may consider proposing an extension of the period of validity of any potential nuclear agreement to cover a long-term horizon, encompassing policy-and-legislation, politics, general-news, and war-and-conflicts. During the negotiation process, it is essential to address France's reluctance and ensure the preservation of trust among European allies, as the issue of European nuclear cooperation is fraught with complexities and implications that extend beyond the boundaries of nuclear policy.
