On Thursday, Russia's Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko warned that European nations permitting the deployment of French nuclear-capable bombers could become potential targets in the event of a conflict. This statement escalates tensions over nuclear policy in Europe, as Grushko described the deployment as part of an 'uncontrolled build-up' of NATO's nuclear capabilities, which Russia perceives as a direct threat. French President Emmanuel Macron had previously indicated openness to temporarily stationing these bombers in allied countries, including the United Kingdom, Germany, and Poland, as part of enhanced defense cooperation. Grushko argued that such actions would not bolster security for host nations but rather make them more vulnerable. The warning comes amid increasing geopolitical tensions, particularly with ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, and the expiration of key arms control treaties. Grushko emphasized that future arms control discussions must include NATO's nuclear capabilities, while NATO has called for Russia and China to enhance transparency regarding nuclear weapons ahead of a significant United Nations conference on nuclear non-proliferation.