Germany Joins French 'Poker' Nuclear Exercise, Deepening Franco-German Defense Cooperation

At a Franco-German Defense and Security Council convened at Germany's Nörvenich Air Base, officials disclosed that Germany will join France's nuclear exercise named Poker later this year. This decision follows a series of discussions about the possible deployment of French nuclear forces outside France and signals a doctrinal adjustment for both nations regarding nuclear use. France, one of only three NATO members with nuclear weapons, has emphasized the importance of its deterrent amid heightened security threats in Europe.

President Emmanuel Macron recently presented a "forward deterrence" concept, calling for a stronger, more flexible nuclear posture while keeping the size of France's stockpile undisclosed. Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced the formation of a nuclear steering group to deepen Franco-German collaboration on deterrence. While the United States continues to provide the overarching nuclear umbrella, the partnership illustrates Europe's push for greater self-reliance in security matters.