Russia has warned that European countries hosting French nuclear-capable bombers could become targets in the event of a conflict, in a sharp escalation of tensions over NATO’s evolving defense strategy.

Speaking to state media, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko said Moscow would be forced to reassess its military priorities if such deployments go ahead. His comments were reported by Reuters.

The warning follows an announcement by French President Emmanuel Macron in March that France plans to expand its nuclear arsenal and is considering allowing European allies to host its nuclear-capable strategic bombers on a temporary basis.

Grushko described the proposal as part of an “uncontrolled build-up” of NATO’s nuclear capabilities, which he said posed a direct strategic threat to Russia.

“Clearly, our military will be forced to pay close attention to this issue in the context of updating the list of priority targets in the event of a major conflict,” he said, adding that such moves could ultimately weaken, rather than strengthen, the security of European countries.

France has reportedly discussed potential deployments with several NATO members, including Britain, Germany, Poland, the Netherlands, Belgium, Greece, Sweden and Denmark.

Macron’s initiative comes amid growing pressure on European NATO members to take greater responsibility for their own defense, particularly after repeated criticism of the alliance by U.S. President Donald Trump and his threats regarding NATO commitments.

The issue also unfolds against a backdrop of heightened global tensions and weakening arms control frameworks. The last remaining treaty limiting U.S. and Russian strategic nuclear arsenals expired in February, creating what Moscow describes as a vacuum in global nuclear governance.

Grushko said any future negotiations on nuclear weapons would need to account for the combined capabilities of NATO, including not only U.S. forces but also the nuclear arsenals of France and Britain.