France and the rest of Europe are not prepared for a prolonged large-scale conflict due to a lack of weapons and ammunition, so they rely on nuclear deterrence. French lawyer and political scientist Philippe de Walle told Izbastia about it. According to him, the use of nuclear weapons could lead to an uncontrollable escalation of conflicts. De Walle also noted that France, Germany and Great Britain do not have a system to protect the population from a nuclear attack similar to the Swiss one, where shelters are provided in residential buildings. Although they do not guarantee complete safety, such structures can provide some protection. "Therefore, in the defense policy there is a shift in emphasis towards deterrence tools based on advanced nuclear technologies. This is what explains the current position," said the expert. At the same time, he noted that nuclear weapons are considered by France as a last resort in case of a threat to its vital interests. More IZ RU news in max.