Finland has joined France’s initiative to expand cooperation with European partners on nuclear deterrence, the leaders of both countries announced on Monday. The move comes amid concerns over the future of US security commitments to Europe and the wider security impact of the war in Ukraine. France launched the Forward Nuclear Deterrence Initiative in March as part of efforts to strengthen Europe’s responsibility for its own defence.

The initiative allows participating countries to engage in joint military exercises, discuss nuclear strategy more closely and potentially host nuclear-capable assets for short periods. However, the decision to use French nuclear weapons remains solely with the French president, unlike NATO’s nuclear framework, which involves a shared Nuclear Planning Group. Finland’s defence minister described joining the initiative as a natural step following other Nordic countries.

Finnish President Alexander Stubb said the programme is aimed at strengthening European security and preventing escalation, while stressing that it does not replace NATO’s nuclear deterrence. Finland also said it does not intend to allow nuclear weapons to be stationed on its territory during peacetime. With Finland’s addition, 10 European countries now participate in the French initiative.

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