Dutch FM Says US Nuclear Umbrella Will Remain Central to Europe’s Security
Speaking on the second day of the Munich Security Conference, van Weel addressed ongoing debate over whether France’s nuclear capabilities could play a broader European role. He said he is “not against these talks” about what the French deterrent could mean for Europe, but expressed firm confidence in existing US guarantees.
“I have no doubt that the nuclear umbrella that the US provides gives us a lot of safety and will remain there,” he said.
Van Weel also commented on NATO contingency planning amid concerns about a potential reduction in US military contributions. He pointed to remarks delivered at the conference by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, which he described as reassuring for European allies.
According to van Weel, Rubio emphasized that while Europe must increase its defense spending and accept evolving geopolitical realities, the transatlantic bond remains durable and central to collective security.
Van Weel characterized the current strategic environment as a “wake-up call” for European nations to enhance their own defense capabilities. However, he stressed that strengthening European defense should complement—not replace—the alliance with Washington.
“We need to step up our own defense. We need to be able to take care of our own security more. But on top of that, we will have a strong NATO and a strong transatlantic one,” he said, referencing the continued importance of the NATO alliance.
The Dutch minister also highlighted the importance of Türkiye within NATO, describing it as a critical contributor to European security.
“I think Türkiye is critical for European security,” van Weel said, noting his prior experience working within NATO and witnessing Ankara’s contributions firsthand.
His remarks underscore the dual-track approach many European leaders are advocating: expanding regional defense capabilities while preserving the foundational US security guarantee that has anchored Europe’s strategic posture for decades.
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