Polish FM doubts viability of European nuclear umbrella

Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski has voiced doubts about the feasibility and effectiveness of proposals to establish a European nuclear umbrella, according to Russian media reports cited by Caliber.Az.

“I am sceptical about such discussions. It is not the case that the more you talk about it, the closer you get to it,” Sikorski said.

He argued that the existing nuclear capabilities of European powers are insufficient to replicate the deterrence currently provided by the United States. “The nuclear arsenals of the United Kingdom and France are small, and they do not perform the role that the American deterrence resource does,” he stated.

Sikorski also emphasized that NATO already functions as a “nuclear alliance,” suggesting that additional frameworks may be unnecessary.

The debate over a potential European nuclear shield gained momentum after French President Emmanuel Macron announced in March 2025 that he would initiate discussions with allies on extending France’s nuclear deterrent to cover European partners. Germany, Poland, Lithuania, and Denmark indicated openness to such talks.

According to the Financial Times, European allies of the United States have been exploring options for an independent nuclear deterrent amid shifts in US foreign policy, particularly efforts by the current administration to restore relations with Russia.

By Tamilla Hasanova