France may extend nuclear deterrence to protect EU allies, says defence minister

French defence minister Sébastien Lecornu indicated that France could use nuclear deterrence to safeguard EU nations, with any decision resting with the head of state to protect vital interests.

French defence minister Sébastien Lecornu has suggested that France could utilise its nuclear deterrence capabilities to ensure the security of European Union member states.

He stressed that any such decision would be made by the head of state and would be focused on defending the country’s "vital interests."