№ 4 (11), 2025. French Nuclear Policy: Current Developments and the Significance for Russian Political Interests

Traditionally, Russian, and foreign political science pays more attention to the study of the nuclear doctrines of Russia and the United States, the states with the largest nuclear arsenals. In this regard, nuclear factor in foreign policy of other countries, especially medium-sized states such as France, is often underestimated. Meanwhile, the question of how to involve France (and the UK) in the arms control process together with Moscow is a key issue for Russia’s national security. In 2023, announcing the suspension of Russia’s participation in the New START Treaty, President Vladimir Putin outlined the importance of taking into account nuclear arsenals of the two European countries as a necessary condition for continuing the dialogue on strategic stability. In addition, France’s membership in the nuclear club affects Russia’s security interests, since France, as a member of the Nuclear Five (P5), is an important player in the negotiations on the compliance with the nonproliferation regime.