US discussing possible wider nuclear deployments in Europe, FT says

WASHINGTON: The United States is discussing whether to place nuclear weapons in additional European Nato countries.

US officials had indicated they were open to deployments beyond the six countries that already host nuclear-capable bombers. Citing three people briefed on the discussions, the proposal would involve more countries hosting so-called US dual-capable aircraft, which can carry out nuclear strikes. Any agreement to expand US nuclear hosting was not close.

Countries on Nato's eastern flank, including Poland and some Baltic states, were interested in potentially hosting dual-capable aircraft bases. Discussions were continuing through Nato channels.

Reuters could not immediately verify the report. The White House, the Department of Defense and Nato did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Pentagon policy chief Elbridge Colby has previously said publicly that the US would continue using its nuclear weapons to protect Nato members, even as European allies take the lead on conventional forces. President Donald Trump and several of his aides have criticised European allies for not spending enough on their militaries and for depending on the US for conventional defence.