188 - Is America's Nuclear Umbrella Leaking?

Curtis and Jim examine the evolving landscape of allied extended deterrence, credibility, and the U.S. nuclear umbrella. As geopolitical competition intensifies and allies reassess their security gaps, they explore what it takes to preserve regional peace in a world where strategic trust can be as fragile as nuclear stability itself. For decades, U.S. extended deterrence has underpinned the security of allies across Europe and Asia, helping prevent both major war and nuclear proliferation. Today, however, shifting political priorities, emerging technologies, and evolving regional threats are testing the credibility of that longstanding commitment. Curtis offers his perspective on whether America's nuclear umbrella remains credible, what makes extended deterrence effective, and how the United States can reassure allies without encouraging nuclear proliferation. Jim examines the complex interplay of trust, sovereignty, burden-sharing, and modernization as European nations—including France and Germany—who seek greater strategic autonomy while remaining tied to NATO's collective defense. Together, they discuss the challenges and opportunities facing extended deterrence in an increasingly multipolar world. www.ThinkDeterrence.com