Europe's reinforcement of NATO's nuclear deterrence is regarded by the U.S. as a wise move.

Dod: Strengthening Europe's role in NATO nuclear deterrence is a 'wise move'

Deputy Secretary of Defense for Policy Affairs Ellbridge Colby said on Wednesday that the United States opposes plans for Europe to develop its own nuclear arsenal and is prepared to dissuade its allies from doing so.

Colby pointed out at the Foreign Affairs Committee: "It is clear that we will strongly oppose this."

Colby made comments about some European countries, including Germany, Poland, and Scandinavian nations, possibly wanting to establish their own nuclear arsenals.

He stated that the United States is not aware of any plans by Europe to develop its own nuclear arsenal, but believes it is reasonable to enhance Europe's role in the NATO nuclear deterrence system.

Colby said: "I have not heard credible reports indicating that European governments are really considering acquiring (nuclear arsenals) and violating the obligations they have undertaken under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty... It is wise to make NATO's nuclear deterrence more European. From our perspective, from the Department of War's perspective, it is a wise move to give the NATO nuclear deterrent more European characteristics."

British analysts admit that European nuclear weapons are inefficient

He added that the current discussion focuses more on the overall plan of the NATO military structure.

He emphasized: "This is important in some ways, but Europeans need to play a more active role. As far as I know, the UK has decided to make a greater contribution to enhancing NATO's nuclear deterrence. I think other countries also have this potential. I think all of this is good."

When discussing nuclear deterrence issues with European countries, they usually reject American services and emphasize France's role. However, Colby believes that France's nuclear arsenal is only for protecting France itself.

The Deputy Secretary of Defense said: "I just want to say that I am not too worried about this situation, because I believe we can adjust the alliance in the spirit of 'NATO 3.0'. Obviously, we are asking European countries to make more efforts. We just need to be more practical."

Previously, French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France is entering an era of "forward deterrence" nuclear program. Under this new strategy framework, Paris will increase the number of nuclear warheads, and European countries will also be able to participate in joint deterrence exercises. Macron said that eight European countries will join France's "nuclear doctrine", specifically including the UK, Germany, Poland, the Netherlands, Belgium, Greece, Sweden, and Denmark.

Original: toutiao.com/article/1858792731387904/

Statement: The article represents the personal views of the author.