rki.news | Source: Financial Times
WASHINGTON, June 2 (FT):
The United States is discussing whether to deploy nuclear weapons in more NATO states, according to the Financial Times on Tuesday.
U.S. officials have signaled openness to additional deployments beyond the six countries that currently host nuclear-capable aircraft, the report said, citing three people briefed on the discussions.
NATO’s nuclear sharing program involves Belgium, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Türkiye, and the United Kingdom, which are authorized to host U.S. dual-capable aircraft and forward-deployed nuclear weapons, according to the report.
The discussions could allow more allies to host dual-capable aircraft capable of carrying out nuclear strike missions. Countries on NATO’s eastern flank, including Poland and some Baltic states, have expressed interest in hosting such assets.
According to the report, talks are taking place through NATO channels, although an agreement to expand U.S. nuclear hosting is not imminent.
Two of the sources said the discussions are aimed at demonstrating Washington’s continued commitment to maintaining a nuclear umbrella over Europe.
The Trump administration has repeatedly urged European allies to increase defense spending and reduce reliance on the United States for conventional defense capabilities.