France expands nuclear deterrence role in Europe as 10 countries join Macron initiative amid weaker confidence in U.S. guarantees

France is expanding its nuclear deterrence role in Europe through an initiative joined by 10 countries, the Wall Street Journal reported. The move comes as confidence in U.S. security guarantees weakens, according to the post.

The initiative, described as “forward deterrence,” includes deploying French nuclear-capable fighter jets across Europe and improving intelligence sharing and early-warning systems to deter Russia. The United Kingdom, Germany, Poland and several Nordic nations are among the participants. The Baltic states are not included, while Italy has declined to join.