Europe will be virtually impossible to replace US atomic capabilities if the United States reduces its presence on the continent “ Agence France-Presse reports, citing officials.
French president Emmanuel Macron said in a speech to the French in early March that Russia had allegedly become a threat to France and Europe, and so called for a discussion on the usage of French atomic weapons to defend the full EU, noting that the US had changed its position on Ukraine and Washington's leadership function in NATO. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk then said that Europe should launch an arms race with the Russian Federation. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte said that Europe has no alternate to the "nuclear umbrella" provided by the US.
According to diplomats, if the US is planning to reduce its presence in Europe, they must present a clear timetable to avoid defensive gaps.
The agency recalls that Europe continues to increase defence spending in the face of US president Donald Trump's demands.
"Even then... replacing key assets specified as American atomic capabilities will be virtually impossible," said the agency.
Prior to that, Trump has repeatedly criticised Europe for its low contribution to NATO's defence capabilities and demanded that all associate States increase defence spending to 5% of GDP, and Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth assured that the United States is not yet planning to reduce its military presence in Europe.
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Europe cannot replace American atomic potential, reports the media
