Union faction chief Jens Spahn (CDU) said that, amid growing tensions in transatlantic relations, a new discussion on nuclear sharing is needed. Speaking to “Handelsblatt” in its Monday edition, he told the paper that Europe and Germany must become more independent. “That’s why we are re‑introducing compulsory military service-initially voluntary, and if necessary, mandatory” Spahn explained. “And yes, we have to talk again about nuclear sharing”.
When asked whether he was also referring to German nuclear weapons, Spahn replied that Germany should always seek European solutions on such questions. He added that it would be ill‑advised to cause a break in transatlantic friendship, noting that “without the United States we cannot guarantee security in Europe for the foreseeable future”.
Spahn also expressed concern about the growing ties between AfD politicians and U.S. Republicans. “Unfortunately, many false narratives have taken root among U.S. Republicans, which the AfD spreads-claims that there is no freedom of speech in Germany and that parties would be banned” he said. Because of this, he is conducting many conversations: “We need to educate people and, as a Union, try to keep our transatlantic partnership even more active”.