We simply must become stronger together in nuclear deterrence in Europe,' Merz, expected to become Germany's next chancellor, said in an interview as the continent seeks to respond to US President Donald Trump's upending of the transatlantic alliance.

German chancellor-in-waiting Friedrich Merz is open to negotiations regarding the joint use of nuclear weapons between the United Kingdom and France. However, he does not rule out the protection of the United States,

Germany’s Friedrich Merz on Sunday (March 5, 2025) reiterated that he was open to France extending its nuclear deterrent in Europe, as the continent seeks to respond to U.S. President Donald Trump’s upending of the transatlantic alliance.