Grushko stated to ‘Sputnik’: ‘All potential threats to our country will be considered within the framework of the Russian nuclear deterrence development strategy.’ He added that ‘the uncontrolled enhancement of NATO’s nuclear capabilities’ will require Russia ‘to carefully consider this matter in its own military development and planning,’ noting that ‘Britain has previously announced an expansion of its nuclear capabilities, including under anti-Russian slogans. It is also quite clear whom the nuclear rhetoric and practical actions of Paris target in this area. It is worth noting that such plans are being developed against the backdrop of widespread militarization of the European continent.’
French President Emmanuel Macron, in a speech delivered in March, stated that his country must tighten its nuclear doctrine in the face of new threats. He explained that he has therefore issued directives to increase the French nuclear arsenal. Macron added that France must also consider expanding its nuclear strategy to encompass the entire continent of Europe, while maintaining national sovereignty. According to him, eight countries have already joined this initiative and can participate in French nuclear maneuvers.
On Monday, Macron announced that working groups from France and Poland will meet in the coming weeks to define more detailed forms of cooperation in nuclear deterrence. Among the topics to be discussed by the parties are information exchange, conducting joint maneuvers, and possibly deploying forces.
