Keep All the Flawed Options on the Table: Europe’s Nuclear Future
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: U.S. extended nuclear deterrence has long underpinned European security, but renewed doubts under President Donald Trump’s leadership have shaken European confidence. In response, Europeans are debating alternatives, such as a “Eurodeterrent”, and in Poland’s case, even hinting at nuclear ambitions. However, these options all face major strategic, political, and technical challenges. This article argues that Europe’s best course is a hedging strategy–maintaining the U.S. umbrella while strengthening European deterrence, including through greater British-French nuclear cooperation, a conventional buildup, and even nuclear latency in select states. Though imperfect, hedging offers a pragmatic path amid growing uncertainty.
Author: Henrik Stålhane Hiim
Institution: Norwegian Defence University College
Language: English
Topic: Nuclear Issues and Defense
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid:
OpenAlex ID: W4416107989