Europe is debating greater nuclear independence at the Munich Security Conference, challenging long-standing US dominance.
New Focus on Nuclear Deterrence
European strategic autonomy discussions typically focus on increasing the continent’s defense industry capabilities. However, the recent Munich Security Conference introduced a new dimension: expanded talks about enhanced independence in nuclear deterrence, a domain previously almost exclusively controlled by the United States.
Warning from Nuclear Experts
This year’s Munich conference featured the release of a report by the European Nuclear Studies Group. The report’s authors warn that Europe faces a “dangerous deterrence gap” risk if it fails to urgently reconsider its nuclear strategy.