European leaders are grappling with the fragility of transatlantic ties and the reliability of U.

S. security guarantees under NATO.

French President Emmanuel Macron has proposed a discussion on European nuclear deterrence, emphasizing France's independent nuclear capabilities.

This comes amid concerns over former U.

S. President Donald Trump's unpredictable policies and closer ties with Russia, which have raised doubts about America's commitment to NATO.

German Chancellor-designate Friedrich Merz has also called for Europe to prepare for a scenario without U.

S. nuclear protection.

Macron has expressed willingness to explore deeper European cooperation, including with the UK, to strengthen the continent's strategic autonomy.