Poland and Lithuania have confirmed they are in early-stage discussions about taking a larger part in NATO's nuclear deterrence framework, which is anchored by U.S. nuclear weapons stationed in Europe. Polish Deputy Defense Minister Paweł Zalewski said talks are aimed at creating "better conditions for nuclear deterrence" while ruling out hosting nuclear weapons on Polish soil, and Lithuania's defence minister similarly acknowledged ongoing classified discussions. The moves come as Washington signals openness to deploying elements of its nuclear arsenal in additional European countries beyond the six currently thought to host such weapons — a development seen as a potential counterbalance to reduced U.S. conventional military engagement in Europe under President Donald Trump.