A leading figure within the Christian Democratic Union/Christian Social Union (CDU/CSU) parliamentary group in the German Bundestag, Jens Spahn, has advocated for financial support to the French and British nuclear arsenals. This support would be contingent on the German government reaching agreements with Paris and London similar to the existing nuclear participation arrangement with the United States.
Spahn, in comments to the “Frankfurter Allgemeine Sonntagszeitung” (FAS), emphasized that a “parity participation” with France and the United Kingdom was unlikely, citing the US model where “the red button” remains under American control.
Addressing whether a comparable agreement with France or the United Kingdom would suffice for Germany’s defense, Spahn responded affirmatively, adding that joint efforts to modernize and expand the arsenals of these nations would be necessary. He also expressed gratitude for the ongoing protection provided by the United States in Europe.
Spahn argued for the development of a European deterrence capability, potentially in collaboration with France or the United Kingdom, suggesting that Germany should be proactive in initiating the required discussions within Europe.
Regarding the deployment of German peacekeeping troops to Ukraine, Spahn offered a nuanced perspective. He relayed a sentiment expressed by Ukrainian officials during his recent visit, stating that their foremost security need is a robust national military. Their priority, he said, is equipping their own forces and sustaining an army of 800,000 personnel rather than requesting foreign troop deployments.
When asked about Germany’s potential role in militarily securing a peace agreement in Ukraine, Spahn cautioned that this hinged on Vladimir Putin’s willingness to pursue peace. He concluded that, based on his recent visit to Ukraine, a peaceful resolution remained distant, with Putin continuing to pursue a war effort.