“U.S. officials have signaled openness to additional deployments beyond the existing six countries hosting nuclear-capable bombers,” the FT wrote.
“The talks, which are highly confidential and may not lead to any changes in nuclear-sharing arrangements, come amid widespread concern in Europe over Donald Trump’s moves to remove U.S. troops and critical weapons systems from the continent.”
The initiative would allow more European countries to receive dual-capable aircraft (DCA), jets able to carry both conventional and nuclear weapons. Eastern NATO members located near Russia have shown the strongest interest in the program. Poland has been among the most vocal in seeking DCA deployment; former Polish President Andrzej Duda has publicly made that request.
At the same time, there has been serious uncertainty about
the U.S. troop presence in Europe. The Pentagon has considered withdrawing up
to 10,000 troops from Eastern Europe, and later reports suggested Washington
was planning a significant reduction in its contribution to NATO’s force model.
NATO officials have urged calm, saying Europe has met Trump’s demands to
increase defense spending. European leaders are preparing a coordinated
response.