The US administration is exploring the possibility of stationing nuclear weapons on the territory of European NATO allies, in a move designed to reassure partners that a reduction in military aid does not amount to a weakening of security guarantees, according to people familiar with the discussions.
The White House is considering the deployment of nuclear weapons to European NATO member states – a step Washington hopes will demonstrate to allies that a reduction in military assistance does not diminish the level of security guarantees. The Financial Times reports the story, citing informed sources.
American officials have indicated they would not oppose the stationing of additional bombers capable of carrying nuclear warheads beyond the six countries where such aircraft are already based. The talks come amid growing unease in Europe over US president Donald Trump’s decision to withdraw American troops and key weapons systems from the continent. The discussions are confidential and may not lead to changes to existing nuclear-sharing agreements.
Earlier, CNN reported that Donald Trump was at the centre of a mounting political crisis. The broadcaster’s analysts noted that the current situation has left him more vulnerable – both domestically and abroad. According to experts, Trump’s tactic of consolidating personal power – one that helped him strengthen his position after returning to the White House – is now backfiring: it is provoking increasingly active resistance and generating new political threats.
Separately, journalists noted that Washington has so far failed to achieve its strategic objectives regarding Tehran. Meanwhile, pressure on Trump is growing from two directions: from domestic opponents, and from international partners who are insisting on a swift end to the conflict.
