US says it would strenuously oppose Poland or other European states developing nuclear weapons
Mar 6th 2026
Pentagon policy chief Elbridge Colby told a Council on Foreign Relations event the United States would oppose independent European nuclear programs, while saying he has not seen credible evidence countries like Poland are actively pursuing them; his remarks come as Poland discusses a potential security link with France and debates a possible autonomous deterrent.
- Pentagon policy chief Elbridge Colby said the US would strenuously oppose European countries seeking independent nuclear arsenals and has seen no credible signs they are pursuing such acquisition.
- Poland is in talks with France about joining a French nuclear deterrence programme that could let allies host French nuclear assets.
- Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has signaled Poland may seek greater autonomous nuclear capabilities in the future.
- Colby warned that the French nuclear deterrent is designed to defend France and would be difficult to credibly extend to distant allies.
- The nuclear debate is politicized in Poland, with disagreement between the government and President Karol Nawrocki over consultations and strategy.