German Chancellor Welcomes France's Request for Increased Military Cooperation Among European Countries

Olaf Scholz, the Chancellor of Germany, stated on Thursday, May 25, that European countries need closer military cooperation with each other. He further expressed support for France's nuclear deterrence, proposed by Emmanuel Macron, to respond to what Scholz called "brutal imperialism" from Russia. In an article published on Thursday in The Economist, the Chancellor welcomed President Macron's emphasis on the European aspect of French forces. Scholz stated, "In addition to nuclear deterrence, we are looking at strong conventional forces, air defense, missile capabilities, as well as cyber, space, and deep strike capabilities." He added that European countries can and should take on more responsibilities within NATO. Olaf Scholz emphasized that the European Union will not have its own nuclear weapons, nor is there any intention to question France's nuclear deterrent sovereignty. Emmanuel Macron had stated last month that France's nuclear weapons should be part of the European defense discussion. The French President had previously called for a stronger and more integrated European defense power while outlining his vision for a more assertive European Union on the global stage. Russian forces began exercises earlier this month simulating readiness to launch tactical nuclear weapons. These exercises are seen as a warning from Vladimir Putin, the President of Russia, to deter the West from deeper involvement in the war in Ukraine. At that time, Moscow linked these drills to what it called "belligerent statements" from Western officials, including Emmanuel Macron. Olaf Scholz added in his article that to maintain broad public support for Ukraine in Europe, it is important to "clearly" indicate that NATO is not seeking confrontation with Russia.