US weighs expanding nuclear deployments in add'l European NATO states - report

The United States is reportedly exploring the possibility of expanding its nuclear weapons deployments to additional European NATO member states, a move that could significantly alter the continent's security landscape. The Financial Times, citing sources briefed on the discussions, reported that US officials have signaled a willingness to increase the number of countries hosting nuclear-capable aircraft.

This potential expansion would involve more nations hosting dual-capable aircraft (DCA), which are designed to deliver both conventional and nuclear payloads. While the report suggests discussions are ongoing within NATO channels, it cautions that any agreement to broaden the scope of US nuclear hosting is not imminent. Countries along NATO's eastern flank, such as Poland and some Baltic states, have reportedly expressed interest in hosting these DCA bases.

The discussions come amid ongoing debates about defense spending within the alliance. Former Pentagon policy chief Elbridge Colby has previously stated the US commitment to using nuclear weapons to protect NATO members, even as European allies are urged to bolster their conventional forces. The report notes that the White House, Department of Defense, and NATO had not immediately responded to requests for comment.