MUNICH, July 21 (Alliance News): Germany has signaled its intent to cooperate with the United Kingdom and France on strengthening Europe’s nuclear deterrence, following the recent signing of key defense agreements with both countries.
While the move is hailed by some as a step towards European strategic autonomy, critics warn it may escalate security tensions across the continent.
Earlier this month, French President Emmanuel Macron signed the Northwood Declaration with the UK, marking the first time both nations agreed to coordinate their independent nuclear defense forces.
Now, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has signed the Kensington Agreement during his official visit to the UK, emphasizing Berlin’s readiness to consult with both London and Paris on enhancing Europe’s defense and nuclear deterrent capabilities.
In response to Merz’s remarks, UK and French leaders welcomed Germany’s willingness to cooperate on European defense. However, the push toward nuclear coordination has drawn sharp criticism from German political scholar Ulrik Goerth.
Goerth argued that such collaboration could worsen the European security landscape rather than stabilize it. “Leaders of the UK, France, and Germany may believe this coordination boosts European strength and counters geopolitical threats, especially from the United States or Russia. But expanding nuclear cooperation creates a more dangerous scenario,” he said.
He further stressed the importance of including Russia in a broader European security architecture, warning that exclusive nuclear alliances may deepen divides and provoke unintended consequences.
“Peace in Europe cannot be built by enhancing nuclear arsenals. Dialogue and inclusive security frameworks are the only sustainable path forward,” Goerth added.
