Netherlands: Sico van der Meer

Although there are some different views on nuclear weapon policies among the political parties in the current government coalition, there is some general agreement that NATO, including its nuclear deterrence, is vital for European and Dutch security. Yet, there is also agreement that much effort is required to work toward global reduction and disarmament of nuclear weapons, which is well possible without immediately undermining the concept of nuclear deterrence. 

The Dutch government traditionally closely observes German policies. With regard to nuclear sharing, the Dutch government sees it as a NATO task, which consequently cannot be a burden for one or very few member states only; the burden should be shared. Any discussions on nuclear sharing should preferably be coordinated within NATO, to prevent any alleingang [go it alone] from any country (which may play into the hands of countries that try to undermine cohesion within NATO as well). In the past, there have been discussions between Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands to coordinate their positions towards nuclear sharing and this kind of policy coordination remains the preferred option to deal with the topic. 

First of all, there are worries that other NATO members will request to host nuclear weapons, and that the current US government might accommodate such requests. Moving nuclear weapons eastwards may be seen as provocative and threatening by Russia and may cause extra tensions and escalation risks, which is contrary to European security. Moreover, Germany is an important voice within the Nuclear Planning Group of NATO, and it would be a loss if the German perspectives on nuclear weapons policies would have less impact if it would unilaterally end its nuclear sharing task. Last but not least, clear division lines and disagreements within NATO may be exploited by anti-NATO countries to increase doubts and discord in NATO in general, thus undermining the security alliance even more.