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The Offer by France and European Security
Macron has suggested that France's offer of sharing nuclear capabilities may increase the role of Europe in regard to nuclear deterrence. This, according to Dutch ministers (Tom Berendsen—Foreign Affairs; Dilan Yeşilgöz—Defence), would allow the Netherlands to strengthen the European aspect of NATO's nuclear deterrent.
Increasing Geopolitical Risk
The two ministers indicated the growing threat from increased geopolitical tensions, specifically how the war in Ukraine has made Europe less secure overall. Further, the two believed that closer cooperation with France would improve European allies' collective defence.
U.S. Nuclear Umbrella
Although the possibility exists for closer cooperation with France, the Dutch government has clearly stated that the United States remains NATO's foundational nuclear deterrent. Therefore, they believe that cooperation with France will continue to build upon NATO's existing nuclear architecture, currently built on U.S. capabilities.
The Netherlands contributes to this deterrent through the Volkel Air Base. The ministers have stated that any future collaboration with France will be an enhancement to NATO's existing nuclear deterrent, therefore not a replacement.
