In response to shifting global dynamics, French President Emmanuel Macron has convened an emergency summit in Paris to discuss collective European defense strategies, particularly in light of the evolving US stance on NATO.

Concerns have been raised regarding the commitment of the United States to European security, especially under President Donald Trump, who has suggested halving defense spending and has been critical of NATO.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has indicated that defending Europe is no longer a priority, hinting at potential troop withdrawals and a diminishing focus on the Russian threat.

This shift has led to heightened fears of an emboldened Russia under President Putin, prompting calls among NATO members for increased defense spending.

One proposal under consideration is for Britain and France to pool their nuclear arsenals to establish a Europe-wide defensive nuclear shield, a move driven by concerns over reduced US support.

Britain's involvement is seen as crucial in any European nuclear defense strategy, as its nuclear arsenal, when combined with France's, could effectively counter China's deterrent capabilities.

While France is advocating for a collective European defense framework, it maintains that it will not relinquish control of its independent nuclear force.

However, the response to Macron's proposal has been mixed in Germany, facing opposition from Chancellor Olaf Scholz and anti-nuclear parties, although conservative factions have shown interest.

In a related development, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy has proposed the formation of an 'army of Europe' to bolster European self-reliance in defense, aligning with Macron's vision for a more integrated defense approach.

Despite the potential benefits, the proposal to pool nuclear weapons is politically contentious in the UK, raising concerns about sovereignty, nuclear proliferation, and possible provocations to both Russia and the US.

Macron has previously revived discussions on a pan-European nuclear shield, having proposed a strategic dialogue on France's nuclear deterrent in 2020 and reiterated this vision in the years since.

Analysts argue that the urgency of Europe's security situation may necessitate the rapid integration of defense strategies, which could include extending nuclear guarantees across the continent.