US Discusses Deploying Nuclear Weapons in More European NATO States

The United States is exploring the possibility of deploying nuclear weapons in more European NATO countries, according to a report by the Financial Times. US officials have indicated a willingness to expand the number of nations hosting nuclear-capable aircraft beyond the current six.

The potential deployment would involve additional countries hosting what are known as US dual-capable aircraft (DCA). These aircraft are designed to carry both conventional and nuclear payloads, allowing them to deliver nuclear strikes. However, the report cautions that an agreement to expand the US nuclear hosting arrangements is not expected in the immediate future.

Countries on NATO's eastern flank, including Poland and some Baltic states, have expressed interest in potentially hosting DCA bases. Discussions regarding these possibilities are reportedly underway within NATO channels. Reuters has not yet been able to independently verify the report, and requests for comment sent to the White House, Department of Defense, and NATO have not yet received a response.

Pentagon policy chief Elbridge Colby has previously stated that the US would continue to use its nuclear weapons to protect NATO members, even as European allies take greater responsibility for conventional defense. This discussion comes amid criticism from former President Donald Trump and his aides regarding European allies' defense spending and their reliance on the US for conventional security.