Paris demands clear rules for long-range missiles from Berlin over escalation risks

Paris is attempting to align its nuclear doctrine with Germany's plans to procure non-nuclear missiles. According to the Financial Times, citing sources, French officials have expressed concern that without clear protocols for the use of long-range missiles, Europe could find itself on the brink of a nuclear conflict with Russia.

Risk of misinterpreting signals

Germany, along with several other states, including the United Kingdom, Poland, and the Nordic and Baltic countries, is procuring a series of ground-based missiles. These systems have a range of approximately 2,000 kilometres, allowing them to strike targets deep inside Russian territory.

However, France fears that even a strike with conventional weapons could be interpreted by Moscow as a precursor to the use of nuclear weapons. As one source told the publication: «Якщо росіяни неправильно витлумачать сигнал, можна опинитися на порозі ядерної війни, навіть не усвідомлюючи цього» (If the Russians misinterpret the signal, you could find yourself on the brink of nuclear war, even without realizing it).

The issue of responsibility for partners' actions

France is in negotiations with several European countries regarding the deployment of its nuclear missiles. Against this backdrop, Paris is trying to align Germany's doctrine for the use of long-range weapons with its own nuclear strategy.

Particular attention is being paid to the concept of "forward deterrence" proposed by President Emmanuel Macron. French officials are concerned that Moscow may shift responsibility for strikes by partners onto France. One official familiar with the discussions commented on the situation as follows: «Якщо ви запрошуєте когось до свого дому, ви несете відповідальність, якщо ця людина підпалить його» (If you invite someone into your home, you are responsible if that person sets it on fire).