Russia’s intelligence service claims EU exploring independent nuclear capabilities

Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) has alleged that European Union leaders are considering developing independent nuclear weapons capabilities, a claim presented without publicly available evidence and not confirmed by EU officials.

In a press release, the SVR stated that discussions are allegedly taking place within EU institutions about creating a nuclear weapons production capacity. According to the agency, these efforts are being framed by European officials as a response to security threats from Russia, though the SVR claims the initiative reflects broader ambitions for strategic autonomy, Caliber.Az reports. 

The statement further asserted that any such planning is being conducted with a high level of secrecy, while the EU publicly maintains reliance on the United States’ nuclear deterrence framework. The SVR suggested that this approach would allow time for developing industrial capabilities and preparing political support for potential nuclear armament.

The agency also claimed that coordination between the United Kingdom and France—Europe’s two nuclear-armed states—could form the basis of a broader, pan-European nuclear deterrence policy in the future, potentially supported by other EU member states through financial and infrastructure contributions.

Additionally, the SVR highlighted that several European countries possess advanced civilian nuclear industries and maintain stocks of spent nuclear fuel, which could theoretically be reprocessed into weapons-grade materials. It suggested that existing technological infrastructure in countries such as Germany, Italy, and others could support the development of nuclear weapon components.

The statement concluded with a warning that such developments could contribute to a renewed global nuclear arms race, calling on the United States and other countries to take steps to prevent the emergence of additional nuclear-armed actors in Europe.

By Sabina Mammadli