To add details

June 2 (Reuters) - The United States is holding consultations on the possibility of deploying nuclear weapons in other European NATO member states, the Financial Times reported on Tuesday.

The newspaper noted that US officials have expressed openness to the idea of additional deployments outside the current six countries that host nuclear-capable bombers.

The newspaper explained that this step would involve more countries hosting what are called dual-capability American aircraft capable of launching nuclear strikes, while emphasizing that reaching an agreement to expand the scope of hosting American nuclear weapons is not imminent.

The report stated that countries on NATO’s eastern flank, including Poland and some Baltic states, have expressed interest in hosting potential bases for these aircraft, and explained that discussions are taking place through NATO channels.

Reuters was unable to immediately verify the report. The White House, the Department of Defense, and NATO did not respond to requests for comment.

US President Donald Trump and many of his aides criticize European allies for not spending enough on their militaries and for relying on the United States for conventional defense.