Russia Says UK ‘Nuclear Umbrella’ Fails to Boost European Security
The comments come amid growing discussions in Europe about developing independent nuclear deterrents, following announcements from the US that it would reduce certain security commitments to European allies while prioritizing homeland defense and containing China.
Last year, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed a desire for Germany to be covered by the nuclear protection of the UK and France — the only two European NATO members possessing nuclear weapons. Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson also revealed in January that Stockholm and London have been discussing similar arrangements.
Kelin told the Russian newspaper Izvestia on Tuesday that it is “obvious that the British ‘nuclear umbrella’ will not be able to provide any additional material security guarantees” to Europe. He added that Moscow is closely monitoring moves by “states pursuing an overtly anti-Russian policy.”
“The possibility of the expansion of nuclear safeguards will be taken into account in our military planning as well as in further discussions of the strategic stability issues,” Kelin said.
Britain’s nuclear arsenal, committed to NATO since 1962, consists of 225 warheads deployed on four Vanguard-class submarines. Last year, the UK government also announced plans to acquire 12 F-35 fighter jets from the US, capable of carrying nuclear missiles.
“The strengthening of such potential apparently instills in London an illusory hope of leadership in ensuring European security,” Kelin noted.
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