Norway Moves Under France’s Nuclear Umbrella

Norway and France have signed an agreement on a “nuclear umbrella,” the preparation of which has been underway since at least March.

Faytuks Network reported this news.

The document was signed by Norway’s Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre and France’s President Emmanuel Macron. The details of the agreement, its terms, and key provisions have not been disclosed.

“We are doing this in view of the security situation in Europe, in particular Russia’s large-scale rearmament, including in the nuclear sphere, and the fact that it is waging a full-scale war against another European country,” Støre told Norwegian news agency NTB.

In March, it was reported that Norway does not plan to deploy nuclear weapons on its territory in peacetime.

It was also reported that Denmark is open to co-financing a European nuclear umbrella and is ready to discuss the possible deployment of nuclear weapons on its territory.

Sweden has also stepped up discussions on nuclear deterrence.

In late January, Sweden held preliminary consultations with France and the United Kingdom on possible cooperation in nuclear deterrence.

The Scandinavian countries have intensified discussions on nuclear policy amid growing doubts over US security guarantees for Europe and Washington’s willingness to meet NATO obligations in a crisis, as well as concerns over Russia.

France’s “Nuclear Umbrella”

France remains the only nuclear power in the European Union, and the idea of extending its nuclear protection to allies has been repeatedly discussed.

According to polls published in March 2025, 59% of French respondents support the idea of using French nuclear weapons to defend Europe.

Test of a French strategic ballistic missile M51.3, 2023. Photo credits: Ministry of Armed Forces of France

Amid doubts about long-term US security commitments, European countries have stepped up discussions on strengthening their own nuclear deterrence.

Germany has also begun talks with France on a joint European nuclear umbrella and is discussing possible co-financing of the project.

Read more: Nuclear deterrent forces in Europe: how large and independent are they?