Emmanuel Macron open to extending France's nuclear umbrella to European allies

President Macron announced that EU leaders will meet on Thursday in Brussels for an “extraordinary” summit aimed at agreeing to increase military expenditure and ensuring armaments can be produced within Europe.

Macron emphasized that France must acknowledge its "special status" as having the “most efficient, effective army in Europe” and nuclear capabilities. He stated that he will push the French government to focus on a new investment strategy that would mobilize both private and public financing without raising taxes.

“Our nuclear deterrent helps us,” said Macron, noting that he would initiate discussions on possibly extending France’s nuclear umbrella to European allies.

Macron also referenced comments by Friedrich Merz, Germany’s likely future chancellor, who has called for a debate on providing nuclear protection to European partners.